Latest developments
- Barcelona are monitoring Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku.
- The Frenchman is unhappy with his playing time at Stamford Bridge.
- Barca have good relations with his agent, Pini Zahavi.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Reports coming from Spain
Unhappy with his minutes in the Premier League, Christopher Nkunku could be offered a way out of Chelsea by Barcelona, who are reported to be monitoring him.
Said reports come from sport.es; the Spanish site has not explained their sources, but are likely to be well-connected to the Catalan giants.
Value (4/5): Market value decreasing
Valued at £66.3 million when he signed for the Blues 18 months ago, injury problems last season and unable to force himself into Enzo Maresca's thinking this season has seen his value drop to £41.5 million.
When he has played this season, Nkunku has looked back to his best, scoring 12 times in 25 matches – with more than half of those as a substitute. If Chelsea accept a deal around valuation, Barcelona could have a bargain on their hands.
Suitability (4/5): Flick system suits
In Barcelona's traditional 4-3-3 formation, Nkunku could only be deployed in his secondary positions of centre-forward or left-winger.
Yet now, Hansi Flick has brought in a 4-2-3-1 formation, where Nkunku can be best deployed in his favoured attacking midfield role.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Depends on Olmo situation
Barcelona's continued toeing of the line when it comes to La Liga regulations means they are struggling to register Dani Olmo for the second half of the season.
If they can get him registered, Nkunku might still be facing plenty of time on the sidelines. If they can't, Nkunku would likely be picked ahead of Pablo Torre.
Logic (2/5): Nkunku needs guarantees
The financial situation at Barcelona throws this whole deal into doubt. It would make more sense for the Blaugrana to focus on getting their current players registered, rather than splashing out on replacements.
Desperate to play, the Olmo situation would likely be off-putting for Nkunku, who will need guarantees and assurances before any move away from the Bridge.
Whisper+ verdict: 15/25
Not an impossible move, but when a player wants to be guaranteed playing time, Barcelona and their never-ending registration problems is unlikely to be a top destination.
