Chelsea agree deal to sign former Brighton midfielder Valentin Barco from Strasbourg | OneFootball

Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign RC Strasbourg midfielder Valentin Barco on a six-year deal, according to Diario AS.

Manager Liam Rosenior reportedly played a role in securing the move. He also approved Barco’s signing from Brighton & Hove Albion during his time in charge at Strasbourg.

Barco initially joined Strasbourg on a loan deal, before making the move permanent for £7.87 million last summer.

The Argentine has been a key player for Strasbourg this term. He has tallied 11 goal involvements in 38 appearances across all competitions.

Barco is one of the best playmakers in Ligue 1, ranking third for big chances created and third for expected assists.

The 21-year-old has recently become part of the Argentina national team set-up, although he is yet to break into the starting line-up.

Barco could be Enzo Fernandez’s replacement at Chelsea

Enzo Fernandez is open to leaving Chelsea, and his relationship with Rosenior appears broken.

Fernandez is currently serving a two-game suspension for ‘crossing a line‘ with his recent comments which has cast more doubts about his future at the club.

Real Madrid are considering a move for the Argentine if they fail to sign Manchester City’s Rodri.

Barco could be Fernandez’s replacement at Chelsea, and his previous working relationship with Rosenior makes him an ideal signing.

Barco is as creative as his international teammate, but does not have the same goal-scoring prowess.

The Strasbourg star also struggled in his previous spell in the Premier League, and it remains to be seen whether he is ready to play regularly in the division.

Stats from sofascore.com