Valentin Barco transfer stance revealed as Liam Rosenior reunion possible at Chelsea

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Valentin Barco has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in recent times ahead of the summer transfer window as Chelsea look to upgrade their options under Liam Rosenior

Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Valentin Barco's development at sister club Strasbourg with the 21-year-old enjoying an impressive season in France.

The Argentine signed for the BlueCo-owned French club on a permanent basis last summer from Brighton after spending the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Stade de la Meinau. Barco has impressed this term at Strasbourg, scoring once and assisting nine times in 34 matches in all competitions.

Chelsea are watching Barco closely as he continues his progress in France. The Blues' sporting directors regularly attend Strasbourg matches due to their close affiliation with the French club, while head coach Liam Rosenior has worked with Barco before.

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Under Rosenior, Barco appeared a total of 38 times, with the Argentine starting 32 of those. Before moving to Strasbourg, Barco was more of a conventional left-back but since moving to the BlueCo-owned outfit, he has transitioned into a midfielder.

Chelsea are expected to be busy in the summer transfer window, with Barco an option, and have today been boosted by Reece James agreeing a contract extension at Stamford Bridge. The club captain is now contracted with the Blues until the summer of 2032 and Rosenior is delighted with the news.

"I can't stop smiling because we secured the best player in world football in his position," said Rosenior about James. "He had many, many opportunities to leave this magnificent club. He's come through from a very, very young age, with belief and confidence in what we're doing here, where we want to go.

"We've had many conversations about it. For him to sign a deal and put his faith in us is a massive step."