Chelsea could be set to miss out on Brazilian midfielder Arthur with reports suggesting he could be set to move to Barcelona.
The Blues have been linked with making a move for the Gremio midfielder, and see him as a potential long term replacement for Cesc Fabregas.
The 21-year-old has been compared to the likes of Spain legends Xavi and Iniesta and has already been called up by Brazil coach Tite, although he has yet to make international debut.
He was also the man of the match as Gremio won the Copa Libertadores, South America’s equivalent of the Champions League, for the first time in 22 years.
However, according to reports in Brazil, Barcelona are leading the race to sign the midfielder, who has already been pictured wearing a Barcelona shirt. Reports suggest Gremio want at least €30m for the midfielder, but could demand his full €44m release clause.
Whether a deal can be done in January is still yet to be seen though with the Brazilian’s keen to hold on to him until at least the summer.