Chelsea are preparing a massive €70 million (£58.3m / $72.3m) bid to secure the services of Atletico Madrid’s rising star Pablo Barrios this summer, according to reports from Fichajes. The 21-year-old Spanish international, known for his versatility across the midfield in the No 6, No 8, and No 10 roles, has captured the attention of top Premier League clubs, but it’s Chelsea who are leading the race for his signature.

Barrios, a product of the Real Madrid academy before joining Atletico in 2017, has been a standout performer under Diego Simeone this season. Featuring in 24 matches across all competitions, he has played a pivotal role in Atletico Madrid’s surge to second place in La Liga—ahead of Barcelona—while also helping them reach the Champions League last-16 and the Copa del Rey semi-finals.

With Enzo Maresca keen to strengthen his midfield options, Barrios has emerged as Chelsea’s top target to compete alongside Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia. The Blues are reportedly ready to offer a substantial wage increase, a factor that could sway Barrios to swap Madrid for the Premier League in what is described as a ‘pivotal’ summer for his career.

Should the move materialize, Barrios is expected to take the place of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in the Chelsea squad. Dewsbury-Hall failed to secure a winter transfer and is anticipated to leave Stamford Bridge this summer after falling out of Maresca’s plans.

While Chelsea had previously shown interest in Barrios back in November, their pursuit has now intensified. Despite competition from Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City—who have all scouted the talented midfielder—Chelsea look set to accelerate their bid and bring the Spanish starlet to West London.

With the summer window approaching, all eyes will be on whether Barrios chooses to build his legacy at Atletico or embrace the challenge of the Premier League with Chelsea.