According to Croatian media outlet Tportal, Chelsea have made an initial bid for Rijeka midfielder Ivan Lepinjica. The bid is reportedly worth between three and four million Euros and will not be enough to convince the Croatian side to part ways with him.
Rijeka have reportedly made it clear to potential suitors that they will not let Lepinjica go for any less than five million Euros. If Chelsea are to be successful in signing the young midfielder, they will have to up their bid.
Lepinjica is a defensive-minded midfielder who can be effective in a number of positions. He stands at 6”2, so possesses the ability to dominate and would likely suit the physical nature of English football.
Chelsea will have to beat off significant competition in a race for his signature. Championship sides Leeds and West Brom are also reportedly interested in signing the young Croatian and will be able to offer significantly better chances of first-team football.
His current contract does not run out until 2024, so Rijeka will be keen to retain his services. However, a move to England could tempt a player who will have half a mind on the Euros next summer. Lepinjica has made five appearances for the Croatian U-21 side. A move to a bigger club could increase his chances of making his way into the senior squad.
Chelsea already have an abundance of young talent in midfield. The Rijeka midfielder could prove to be another player that gets lost in the clubs loan system.
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