Chelsea are following the Athletico midfielder Bruno Guimarães. The Blues’ chase was initially been reported by Sportv, and has now been confirmed to Sport Witness.
A source has told Sport Witness that the London side are ‘one of the clubs’ who have been monitoring the player, even though they haven’t opened official talks so far.
Chelsea are aware that Bruno Guimarães is protected by a €40m release clause. Athletico are known in Brazil as good negotiators, and will use the amount as a reference for a deal, especially with the competition the player is expected to attract.
When English sides become interested in young Brazilian talents, one of the biggest problems usually getting them a work permit. But Chelsea wouldn’t have a problem with Bruno, since he already has a Spanish passport and can join as an EU citizen.
The big issue is, of course, the Blues’ transfer ban. Forbidden to sign players for the next two transfer windows, Chelsea would either have to find a deal with Athletico now to get him later, or wait to move in the next year. But the London side know they must be quick as Bruno Guimarães shouldn’t stay in Brazil for much longer.
The 21-year-old has been impressing for Athletico this season, especially for being a defensive midfielder who organises the game so well, something rare in Brazilian football these days.
Earlier this week, Sportv reported that Chelsea had an emissary watching Athletico’s 3-0 win over Boca Juniors for the Copa Libertadores.
