CHELSEA are reportedly set to renew their interest in Barcelona wonderkid Pau Cubarsi – who has a bargain release clause to boot.
Cubarsi, 17, has emerged as the jewel of La Masia this season following his breakthrough into the senior side.
The teen has already clocked up six appearances under Xavi Hernandez, with three of those coming as starts in LaLiga.
Barcelona fans reckon he could even be the next Gerard Pique.
But the defending champions are now sweating over Cubarsi’s future due to his release clause.
The centre-back signed a new deal until 2026 last year, giving him a value of just £8.5million.
And Mundo Deportivo claims Chelsea are ready to take advantage by triggering the clause this summer.
The Blues made an attempt to land Cubarsi last summer before he penned his Barcelona deal.
Chelsea are keen on bringing the best young talent to Stamford Bridge, with the likes of 16-year-old Ecuador international Kendry Paez already secured.
And Cubarsi is viewed by Blues chiefs as a potential world-class defender.
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However, Chelsea are not alone in their pursuit of Cubarsi.
Manchester City were also tracking him last summer and could join the hunt once more.
But Barcelona hope Cubarsi will continue to develop at the Nou Camp.
Boss Xavi said: “We were joking about him the other day because at just 17 he already seems like a veteran.
“He is already playing like a player who is far older than his years. He is aggressive, he does not lose possession and he’s so good at bringing the ball out from the back.”