Chelsea, Man City pursue Argentine wonderkid, amidst Barcelona’s interest

Chelsea and Manchester City have moved ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign 17-year-old Argentine wonderkid Claudio Echeverri.

The talented teenager gained global attention after his standout performances at the U17 FIFA World Cup.

Barcelona initially expressed strong interest, offering to pay by installment, the player’s €25 million release clause, due to financial fair play issues.

However, Echeverri’s club River Plate, rejected the move, which might now see them lose out in the race for the player.

🚨🔵 Understand both Chelsea and Man City have made contact to be informed on Claudio Echeverri situation.

🔵🔴 Barcelona remain keen but structure of the deal makes it complicated with Financial Fair Play.

🇦🇷 Release clause: €25m, up to €30m in the final days of the market. pic.twitter.com/8b3WLvrJfJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 17, 2023

This financial limitation has opened the door for Premier League powerhouses, Manchester City and Chelsea, to make their moves.

Reporter Fabrizio Romano confirmed that both English clubs have initiated contact regarding a potential transfer, putting them in the forefront of the race for Echeverri’s signature.