Chelsea Drop BOMBSHELL Swap Deal on Barcelona – You Won’t Believe Who They Want!

Reports suggest that Chelsea has proposed a swap deal to Barcelona, offering defender Jorrel Hato in exchange for midfielder Fermin Lopez.

Following their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, which saw them slip to fifth place in the Premier League standings, speculation is mounting that Chelsea may seek to strengthen their squad in January to support manager Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea previously showed interest in Fermin during the summer transfer window as they searched for midfield reinforcements, though they only managed to secure Dario Essugo in that position.

The Blues are now renewing their pursuit of the Barcelona midfielder ahead of the upcoming transfer windows, with Spanish media reporting that Chelsea has proposed a player-exchange arrangement to the Catalan club.

While Chelsea remains determined to sign the young talent, any deal would require a substantial financial commitment before Barcelona would even entertain letting their Spanish international depart.

Barcelona’s asking price could reach £80 million, prompting Chelsea to consider including a player as part of the transaction to sweeten the deal.

Chelsea is prepared to offer summer acquisition Hato as part of the package for Fermin, particularly as the Dutch defender has found playing time limited since joining Maresca’s squad.

The report notes that owner Todd Boehly is aware Barcelona needs a new left-back and believes they might welcome the promising defender, who was already on sporting director Deco’s radar.

Former Premier League striker Alan Shearer believes Chelsea requires three new signings heading into the January window.

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer stated: “They’re missing a world-class striker and a top-tier center-back, in my view.

“Perhaps a goalkeeper as well… I’ve never been fully convinced that Chelsea can compete for the title.

“While I’m not dismissing what Joao Pedro and Liam Delap can contribute, I believe reaching that elite level and genuinely challenging for the Premier League would require acquiring a top-quality striker and center-back.”

Gary Lineker chimed in: “Football moves quickly – just weeks ago we were praising Chelsea’s brilliant tactical display against Barcelona.

“Now you can sense the fans starting to turn a bit, at least based on social media sentiment.

“They’re finding it difficult. They still haven’t settled on their best striker option.

“Liam Delap has dealt with numerous injuries this season and hasn’t had consistent opportunities. I don’t believe Joao Pedro is naturally suited to playing as a traditional No.9.”