Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri won’t rule out Nicolo Barella swoop

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has refused to rule out a move for highly-rated Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella in the January transfer window, according to calciomercato.

The Blues are reportedly lining up the 21-year-old as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas, who looks set to depart Stamford Bridge this month.

And speaking to reporters about the link ahead of his side’s Carabao Cup semi-final Final against Tottenham on Tuesday, the Italian boss said: “If Cesc goes of course we will need a replacement.

“Now with the midfielders we are in trouble I think because I don’t know the situation of Loftus, if it is serious or not.”

However, if the Blues did move for the playmaker it’s thought they will face strong competition from Serie A giants Inter Milan.

Barella, who has recently become a regular in the Italy national side, has impressed in his 20 appearances in all competitions for Cagliari this term.

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