Chelsea 'trigger Barcelona star's release clause' as Boehly closes on third summer signing

Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of Barcelona youngster Marc Guiu by activating his release clause, according to reports. The Blues have wasted no time in kicking off their summer recruitment drive, with Todd Boehly having already sealed a couple of early deals.

Tosin Adarabioyo became Chelsea’s first summer signing earlier this month, joining on a free transfer after rejecting a new deal at Fulham. The west Londoners have also agreed a £51million deal for Palmeiras teenager Estevao Willian, who will move to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2025.

Guiu has reportedly been lined up as Chelsea’s next target despite Barcelona offering him a new and improved contract. The Blues have triggered his £5m release clause, according to Fabrizio Romano, meaning they will not have to negotiate a transfer fee with Barcelona.

Chelsea are said to be edging closer to agreeing personal terms with Guiu, who is set to join the club on a long-term deal if he chooses to leave Spain. He is yet to respond to Barcelona’s latest contract offer, which suggests that a move to Chelsea is the most likely outcome as things stand.

Bayern Munich have also been linked with a potential move for the 18-year-old after holding positive talks with Barcelona over the weekend. However, it is said that Chelsea have overtaken the German giants in the race for his signature and find themselves in pole position.

Guiu made his senior debut for Barcelona in October and appeared in seven games across all competitions last season. He chipped in with two goals, scoring on his debut against Athletic Bilbao before opening his account in the Champions League in December.

Xavi, who managed Barcelona last season before leaving at the end of the campaign, was quick to hail Guiu’s fearless approach following his goal against Bilbao.

“The thing that surprises me with this generation is that they have no fear,” said Xavi. “Maybe it was different in my day. They have that spark. They look at me with a face that says: ‘Put me on, I’ll show you that it will go well.’ When we put them on, they’re ready, they show character and bravery.

“I saw it in Gavi, [Alejandro] Balde, Lamine [Yamal], Fermin [Lopez] and I saw it in Marc. There was no fear in his face. I told him he would get one chance. He gets one chance and he took it. I felt he was ready. I am really happy for Marc, he is a good kid who works hard.

“To score with his first touches is extraordinary. I’ve congratulated him just now and you can imagine how he is feeling. It’s quite possibly the best day of his life.”