- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Chelsea are growing increasingly confident of landing Barcelona striker Marc Guiu, who has refused to sign a new deal in the Catalan capital.
A host of clubs – including Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Napoli – have also spoken to the 18-year-old forward about a summer move.
However, Chelsea believe they are leading the race to sign Guiu having tabled what the club sees as a “good offer”.
HITC understands that Barcelona are frustrated that Guiu has so far rebuffed their attempts to tie him down to a new deal.
The Spanish striker has one year remaining on his deal at Camp Nou and a host of clubs have been made aware of a release clause in his contract worth just £5million.
As an exciting and young prospect, Guiu fits the profile of player wanted by Chelsea since their takeover – he became the youngest debutant to score for Barcelona in La Liga last season at 17 years and 291 days.
Chelsea will continue striker search beyond Marc Guiu deal
HITC understands that Chelsea’s interest in Guiu will not prevent them from signing another striker this summer.
Enzo Maresca will be eager to add more firepower to his squad after taking the Stamford Bridge hot seat.
Nicolas Jackson regularly led the line for Chelsea last season and netted 17 goals across all competitions, but the London giants were often left without a plan B amid Christopher Nkunku’s injury struggles and Armando Broja’s poor form in front of goal.
Chelsea have moved quickly this summer to bolster their front line, but HITC revealed that they missed out on Crystal Palace star Michael Olise who has reached an agreement with Bayern Munich.
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