CHELSEA are ready to muscle in on Manchester United’s bid to lure one of Argentina’s most promising young defenders to the Premier League.
The Blues have blitzed the South American market since Todd Boehly’s takeover of the club with talented young attackers and midfielders signed from Brazil and Ecuador so far.
And now they are reportedly looking to snare teenage centre-back Aaron Anselmino from under the noses of United, who have been scouting the Boca Juniors star for many months.
Anselmino, 19, was first linked to United and AC Milan earlier this year.
And rumours of the Red Devils’ interest appeared to firm up in February when TyC Sports named him on a list of four Argentine talents United were tracking.
The 6ft 2in star only made his senior debut for the Buenos Aires giants 12 months ago, shortly after he signed his first professional contract.
They updated his terms to include a 20m US$ release (£15.72m) release clause in January.
But Boca took it out when they renewed him through to 2028 this month after it became obvious the amount was not high enough to deter offers.
A bidding war between Prem clubs would suit Boca down to the ground and journalist Fafi Perez has claimed Chelsea are Anselmino’s latest suitors.
The reporter told DSports Radio listeners that United remain the most interested club in the uncapped teenager.
But it was also noted Chelsea have entered the fight as a direct competitor.
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Both clubs would not have a problem meeting Boca’s asking price.
Reports earlier this year claimed United’s plan for Anselmino was to sign him and loan him to another club owned by INEOS – a move that comes right out of Chelsea’s playbook.
The Blues loaned Brazilian duo Andrey Santos, 20, and Angelo, 19, to sister club Strasbourg this season.
And there has been speculation that Estevao Willian, who Chelsea are understood to be splashing over £60m on, could be heading to join them in France when he turns 18 next spring.
