Report: Chelsea set for major transfer blow after latest update | OneFootball

Barcelona defender agrees new deal despite Chelsea and Spurs interest

Barcelona secure key defender amid Premier League interest

Eric Garcia has agreed terms on a new contract with Barcelona, ending speculation linking him with moves to Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, according to TBR Football. The 24-year-old centre-back has impressed under Hansi Flick this season and will now extend his stay at the Catalan club beyond 2026.

Both Premier League sides had shown genuine interest in the former Manchester City defender. Chelsea made enquiries earlier this year, while Spurs had also asked about his availability in the summer. However, Garcia’s resurgence in form has led Barcelona to prioritise his renewal.

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“TBR Football understands that Chelsea had been asking about Garcia, and we can also confirm that Spurs enquired in the summer,” the report stated. “He is a class act and has Premier League experience; he ticks a lot of boxes.”

Flick’s faith seals defender’s future

Hansi Flick’s decision to make Garcia a first-choice defender has been instrumental in shaping the player’s future. The Spaniard has started ten of Barcelona’s 13 games this season, forming a strong partnership with Pau Cubarsi. Flick’s preference for Garcia has even seen Ronald Araujo dropped to the bench in recent weeks.

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“At one point in the summer with Garcia’s contract expiring, there was real interest with Chelsea and Spurs both keen,” TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey reported. “However, Garcia has since become a big player under Hansi Flick, and he is not going anywhere.”

Chelsea and Spurs turn attention elsewhere

Both Chelsea and Spurs are expected to reassess their defensive targets following this development. Chelsea’s backline is undergoing gradual evolution, while Spurs have been actively searching for depth to support their current pairing.

Garcia’s decision to remain in Spain effectively removes a versatile, technically composed option from the market, one that many Premier League scouts regarded as a natural stylistic fit for English football.

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Eric Garcia would have fit well into a system prioritising possession and structured build-up play, traits that align closely with the direction of the Chelsea team under its current leadership. His Premier League experience and calmness under pressure could have made him a valuable asset, particularly with injuries testing the squad’s defensive depth.

Chelsea’s focus may now shift towards players with stronger physical attributes suited to the Premier League’s intensity, or those entering the final year of their deals elsewhere in Europe.

There’s also an understanding among fans that Barcelona’s stance is logical. Garcia has rediscovered confidence and rhythm under Flick, and continuity will help his development. For Spurs, meanwhile, missing out will sting slightly more given their pressing need for defensive reinforcements in January.

Ultimately, Chelsea fans will see this as part of a longer game, proof that the club are monitoring intelligent, technically sound options but are unwilling to rush into deals. The market will provide new names, but Garcia’s decision shows how form, faith, and timing can quickly change the transfer narrative.