Chelsea and Barcelona watching Portuguese starlet | OneFootball

Chelsea Monitor Barcelona’s Move for Dinamo Zagreb Talent

Barcelona’s Transfer Strategy Hinges on Rashford

Barcelona are closely monitoring Marcus Rashford’s progress before activating another major move in the transfer market. The Catalan club, who secured Rashford on loan from Manchester United, are said to be satisfied with his early impact, with eight goal contributions already recorded this season. “If he continues performing at his current level,” the report states, “Barcelona are likely to trigger the £30 million option to buy agreed with Manchester United.”

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The club’s hierarchy is understood to be evaluating whether a long-term deal for the England international aligns with their financial structure, particularly amid ongoing budget restrictions. Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has reportedly been directly involved in assessing Rashford’s integration and the potential knock-on effects for future signings.

Rising Star in Zagreb Draws Attention

Alongside Rashford’s evaluation, Barcelona are keeping a close eye on 16-year-old winger Cardoso Varela of Dinamo Zagreb, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Portuguese teenager, formerly of Porto’s academy, has already made his debut for Dinamo’s senior side and impressed for Portugal’s youth teams. Mundo Deportivo notes, “Cardoso Varela’s development is being tracked closely by Barcelona’s recruitment team, though no formal offer will be made until Rashford’s future is resolved.”

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The youngster’s potential transfer value is believed to be around £5 million. Varela has previously visited Barcelona’s Ciutat Esportiva facilities and maintains contact with Deco through his agent, Andy Bara, who also represents Dani Olmo.

Chelsea’s Interest in Emerging Talent

Barcelona are not alone in their admiration. Chelsea are reportedly tracking Varela’s situation closely and could enter the race if the Catalans delay their decision. Mundo Deportivo explains, “Chelsea have maintained scouting presence in Croatia and would consider competing for Varela should the opportunity arise.”

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Varela remains under contract with Dinamo Zagreb until June 2028, meaning any move would require both substantial negotiation and clear developmental assurances.

Summer Decisions Ahead

With Rashford’s purchase clause and Varela’s progression both under review, Barcelona’s summer strategy appears finely balanced between immediate quality and long-term investment. The club’s decision could directly influence Chelsea’s market activity, as the London side continues its focus on signing Europe’s top young talents.

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Chelsea’s recent transfer strategy has leaned heavily on acquiring young, high-ceiling players such as Cole Palmer and Kendry Páez. A move for Cardoso Varela would align perfectly with that approach.

What makes this situation intriguing is Barcelona’s financial caution. If Rashford maintains his form, their focus will shift to securing him permanently, which could open the door for Chelsea to move decisively for Varela. Fans at Stamford Bridge have grown used to seeing the club scout Europe’s elite youth systems, and Zagreb has become a particularly fruitful destination in recent years.

Chelsea’s academy and developmental structure would provide a strong platform for Varela’s growth, especially with the club’s renewed emphasis on pathway opportunities under Enzo Maresca. Supporters would welcome another technically gifted wide player capable of thriving in both domestic and European competition.

Ultimately, this is a transfer race that could define part of Chelsea’s summer business. With Barcelona distracted by the Rashford decision, the Blues could steal a march and secure one of Europe’s most exciting teenage prospects before his value rises further.