Chelsea reportedly working out low fee for Barcelona star

Chelsea appear to be adamant in their race for Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong.

The latest report revealed the Blues are working out a lower feel for the Dutch midfielder.

It is no longer news that Frenkie has been linked with moves away from Camp Nou.

The midfielder was first linked with moves to Manchester United this summer before Chelsea joined the race and have been considered favourites to sign him because they can offer him game time in the UCL.

A recent report via the Evening Standard disclosed that the Blues are working to lower the fee with Barcelona to less than the £71m that had been agreed with Manchester United.

Chelsea owner Toddy Boehly is said to be in direct contact with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, and if a deal can be agreed upon, Thomas Tuchel will be left to persuade De Jong to move to the west London side.

Despite interest from Chelsea and Barcelona’s readiness to let him leave this summer, De Jong is keen on remaining in Spain.

The Catalans are in a race to offload players to free up space on the wage bill, and it is believed that the sale of De Jong will create space for them to sign more players.