Chelsea wanted three players from Barcelona last summer, would ‘happily take’ one in January

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Chelsea attempted to raid Barcelona throughout the summer transfer window, and are reportedly keen to try their luck again over the summer.

The Blues spent big money on new signings before the new season got underway, however they failed with a late approach to sign Fermin Lopez.

Lopez decided to stay at Barcelona on deadline day, with Chelsea’s business in the final hours of the transfer window being highlighted by the underwhelming addition of Facundo Buonanotte on loan.

It was not only Lopez that Chelsea were interested in from the La Liga giants. The Chelsea Chronicle understands they would’ve been happy with the additions of Marc Casado and Eric Garcia.

Chelsea would ‘happily take’ Eric Garcia in January

Transfer insider Graeme Bailey has stated that the Blues would also be keen on bringing in the former Manchester City man in January.

He also went on to state that the Blues have been offered the opportunity to bring in Ronald Araujo, however they do not have the belief that he actually wants a move away from the Nou Camp.

Bailey said: “We know Chelsea tried to sign Fermin, but now sources confirm they would happily have taken Casado and Garcia too.

“Interest in Garcia remains, and Barcelona are now working hard on tying him down as his contract expires at the end of the season.

“I am told Garcia is someone Chelsea would happily take in January, but the chances are he will have signed a new deal.

“They have been offered Araujo, and in theory they do have an interest but they are yet to be convinced he wants to leave Barcelona so I do not believe they are pushing too hard on that. Should Araujo make it clear he would move, then things could very well change – but as it stands, he really isn’t keen on leaving.”

Chelsea owners changing stance on defender signing

Despite Enzo Maresca’s public pleas, it was made clear before the season began that Chelsea were not going to be signing a new centre-back after Levi Colwill’s serious knee injury.

However, reports have claimed that the Blues are now considering a new centre-back in January, with injuries already plaguing the likes of Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana this season.

The Blues ended their last game against Liverpool without a fit centre-back available, forcing Reece James and Jorrel Hato at the heart of defence.

Maresca is certainly building something very promising at Stamford Bridge, however he needs to continue to get the backing he requires to keep up with the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City.