Chelsea are not actively trying to sign Barcelona midfielder Gavi, despite being fans of the player, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Reports in the Spanish media had claimed that the Blues had held talks with the player’s representative, Ivan De La Pena, but Romano says the agent also represents Luis Enrique:

“We know that Chelsea love all the top talents in the world and they have a project for the future, so they’d love to sign all the best talents. From what I understand, Chelsea had contacts with Ivan de la Pena, but because he’s representing Luis Enrique and not for a discussion about Gavi at this stage.”

“Also from Chelsea, there is no confirmation of any talks to sign Gavi. Gavi’s full focus at the moment is on Barcelona, who are very quiet and relaxed about the speculation.”

A move for Gavi cannot be completely ruled out. After La Liga rescinded the new contract he signed earlier this season, he could be available on a free transfer this summer.

As Romano says, though, the teenager is keen on remaining at the Camp Nou and you would expect him to sign a new deal once Barca have sorted out the finances.

Even so, Chelsea are likely to be in the market for a new midfielder when the transfer window reopens. While N’Golo Kante is set to sign a contract extension, the future of Mateo Kovacic is in doubt and the Blues may be seeking a replacement.