Chelsea have been in contact with Real Betis youngster José Antonio Morante to ask about a potential move to Stamford Bridge.
The 19-year-old right-winger is currently a member of Manuel Pellegrini’s first team squad and scored in a 5-2 win over Osasuna in October.
He’s enjoyed limited playing time this season but has made the most of the opportunities granted to him by Pellegrini and his team.
While an untimely injury recently kept him out of the Copa del Rey match against Navalcarnero and puts his availability for the derby on November 21st in doubt, more minutes are likely to follow this season.
The youngster has earned the trust of Betis. And it seems, the interest of clubs outside of Spain as well.
Chelsea question
ABC report that Chelsea are one of the sides who view the winger as a highly promising talent. The 19-year-old would fit in neatly to their ever-expanding portfolio of young, emerging players.
The Blues have been tracking Morante closely for the past few years.
Indeed, following the U19 European Championship in the summer, which he won with Spain and in which he was top scorer and in the Team of the Tournament, they contacted his entourage. They wanted to ‘gauge his availability’ for a transfer.
Morante himself put an end to the idea. He is committed to Betis and determined to fulfil his dream of succeeding for them.
Serious offer
A formal offer was not put on the table by Chelsea but, the offer was a serious one.
Or, as ABC put it, it was a ‘serious overture’ from Chelsea that acknowledged his development and offered a compelling sporting path.
Morante was aware of that fact but prioritised staying at Betis due to his deep personal connection to them. Betis have since moved to lock him down to a new deal, with a €30m release clause included.
It’s a standard deal for academy players. But it’s also one to try and ward off interest from Chelsea and other potential suitors.
The Spanish side hope that the situation is under control even though Chelsea continue to show strong interest.
