Chelsea has put their first bid for Boca Juniors’ top young center-back, Aaron Anselmino.
This 19-year-old from Argentina is seen as one of the best new talents in South America, catching the eye of big clubs in Europe, like Manchester United.
The Blues have kept an eye on Anselmino for a few months and have started talks with Boca Juniors.
Chelsea’s first offer is a bit more than £14 million.
Yet, sources say Boca Juniors might not take this offer, as they want to stick to Anselmino’s £20 million buy-out clause.
Additionally, Boca Juniors is seeking a sell-on clause to ensure a share of any future transfer profits.
During the discussions, Chelsea expressed their intention to loan Anselmino to their sister club, Strasbourg in France, if a deal is reached.
But Boca Juniors wants to keep the player till the end of the year.
Anselmino inked a longer deal with Boca Juniors in January, making sure he stays until mid-2028.
Earlier this month, he signed fresh terms, resulting in an increased release clause. Despite the interest, Anselmino is in no rush to leave Buenos Aires.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Anselmino is part of their broader strategy to build for the future.
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This follows their recent signing of Brazilian talent Willian Estevao from Palmeiras.
Meanwhile, Manchester United has also shown significant interest in Anselmino, having scouted him extensively over the past few months. AC Milan also wants the young defender.
For Manchester United, it’s key to strengthen their back line after saying goodbye to Raphael Varane when his deal ends.
Victor Lindelof is also about to leave as he is currently on Fenerbahce’s radar.
United’s top target is Jarrad Branthwaite, but they have also shortlisted other center-backs, including Lille’s Leny Yoro, Juventus’ Gleison Bremer, and Wolves’ captain Max Kilman.
Their interest in Anselmino is independent of their pursuit of a marquee center-back.
It’s been a busy period for Chelsea in the transfer market. The club recently agreed to sell full-back Ian Maatsen to Aston Villa for £37.5 million.
Additionally, Aston Villa’s young talent Omari Kellyman is scheduled for a medical examination before finalizing his £19 million move to Chelsea.
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Both deals are separate, but further business between the two clubs is possible, with Chelsea interested in Villa’s Conor Gallagher and Jhon Duran.
Villa, under Enzo Maresca, is keen to bolster their attacking options with a striker and another wide player.
They have cooled their interest in Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise, who is now expected to join Bayern Munich.
