Chelsea target Claudio Echeverri with view to Strasbourg loan

According to Foot Mercato, under-17 World Cup star Claudio Echeverri (17) could be set to sign for Chelsea FC this winter, before being loaned out to BlueCo-owned RC Strasbourg in order to accumulate experience.

The signing would come as a surprise to some, as Manchester City are currently favourites to enrol the Argentinian, doubling down on River Plate prospects after signing Julián Álvarez (23) from the club in the winter of 2022. The Citizens would then loan Echeverri back to River Plate until next summer, as they had done with Álvarez. FC Barcelona, Real Madrid and PSG are also amongst the clubs reported to be interested in signing the 17-year-old.

Chelsea just behind Manchester City in the race to sign Echeverri

Chelsea are the latest club to have manifested their interest in the attacking midfielder, as the Blues look to add yet another top talent to their exciting portfolio of players. The Millionaires won’t be looking to sell their jewel any lower than his €25 million release clause, though the fee could turn out to be a bargain for whoever pays it if the youngster were to reach anywhere near his apparent potential.

If he were to be loaned to Strasbourg, Echeverri would undoubtedly be an immense addition to Patrick Vieira’s side, who would never have dreamed of signing such a prospect before BlueCo came in.

GFFN | Alfred Lalande