‘Attempt to hijack’: Chelsea made last minute move to sign £60m player but it failed, Romano claims

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Fabrizio Romano has claimed Chelsea made a last-minute move to hijack a move for 25-year-old Richarlison earlier today.

Tottenham have reportedly agreed a £60m fee with Everton for the Brazilian, as they add to their impressive summer business already completed.

The Blues had touted Richarlison as a potential Romelu Lukaku replacement, with the Belgian completing his loan deal to Inter Milan for the upcoming season.

Todd Boehly has apparently promised Thomas Tuchel six new signings this summer, with the Brazil international among the wishlist from an early stage.

With it becoming seemingly clear Antonio Conte’s side were favourites to secure the deal, Romano now claims that the Blues made one last attempt to hijack the move in its final stages.

Chelsea attempted to hijack Richarlison deal

Unfortunately for Chelsea their late swoop didn’t pay off, with Richarlison now all set to join Tottenham.

All the stands between him and a move to the North London is a medical at this stage, with personal terms already agreed between player and club.

There’s no doubt the controversial striker would have been a great addition to Chelsea’s squad. With his desire to win at all costs and his ability to create chances out of thin air, he is the perfect candidate to step up to a Champions League standard side.

The Blues will now move on from interest in the 25-year-old, with their attention reportedly turning to Richarlison’s countryman, Raphinha.

The Blues have already agreed a fee for the winger with Leeds, and are hoping to meet with the player’s agent, Deco, today to sort personal terms.

However, supporters may be worried of another deal slipping through the club’s fingers, with it becoming clear Barcelona remain firmly in the hunt, while also being the player’s preferred destination.

The Catalan side have been a thorn in Chelsea’s side throughout the transfer window, with the threat of them hijacking a long-awaited move for Sevilla’s Jules Kounde very much still a threat.