Chelsea are set to rival Barcelona for the signature of highly-rated Gremio midfielder Arthur who looks set for a move to Europe, say reports.
The 21-year-old caused controversy last week as he was pictured in a Barca top alongside the Catalan club’s South American representative Andre Cury.
That has reportedly highly irritated Gremio, who have threatened to report the Catalan giants to FIFA over their conduct and has fractured the relationship between the clubs.
A report in the Daily Mirror now suggests the English champions are keen on Arthur, who they view as a long-term replacement for Cesc Fabregas.
The Brazilian club – who won their first Copa Libertadores in 22 years this week – are adamant they will not sell the central midfielder for below his €50m release clause.
