According to Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea attempted to sign La Masia-trained Spanish midfielder Marc Bernal, 18, this summer, making an offer to both the player and the Catalan club. The plan involved loaning him to Strasbourg for his first season, a strategy the Blues have employed with numerous other players. However, Bernal refused the move, as his dream is to establish himself at Barcelona. Bernal's contract with the club runs until June 30, 2026, and his market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €5.00m. In addition to Chelsea, other clubs recently linked with the player include Al Nassr, Newcastle United, and Manchester United.