CHELSEA have reportedly joined Liverpool and Newcastle in the race for ‘Baby Kaka’.
That’s as they hunt a replacement for Arsenal-bound Kai Havertz.
Chelsea have made an enquiry for Celta Vigo star Gabri VeigaGetty
GettyChelsea want Veiga to come in for Arsenal target Kai Havertz[/caption]
Gabri Veiga, 21, is currently starring for Celta Vigo as an attacking midfielder.
The playmaker scored 11 goals in 36 LaLiga games this season, and earned the nickname ‘Baby Kaka’ from fans after drawing comparisons with the iconic Brazilian.
Fabrizio Romano now claims Chelsea have made a transfer inquiry after registering their initial interest earlier this month.
It’s believed the Blues are eager to find out more about Veiga’s £35million release clause, and whether it could be paid in Todd Boehly’s preferred method of instalments.
However, Chelsea face a battle against Liverpool for the talented youngster.
Jurgen Klopp has already landed Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister as he rebuilds his midfield.
And like Chelsea, Liverpool have also fired off an enquiry to Celta Vigo.
However, Romano adds that Veiga is currently not a priority for the Reds, who first want to land a physical player like Nice’s Kephren Thuram or Gladbach’s Manu Kone.
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GettyVeiga has been compared to AC Milan and Brazil legend Kaka[/caption]
That could leave Chelsea free to strike swiftly as they near a deal for Champions League winner Havertz to join rivals Arsenal.
The Gunners previously looked at Veiga as an option, but Mikel Arteta now has his heart set on German No10 Havertz.
Man United have been linked with Veiga.
And Newcastle are also big fans of Veiga, with Eddie Howe openly seeking more creativity in the middle of the pitch.
But like Arsenal, Newcastle have their own preferred target for the position, with Leicester’s James Maddison currently top of the pile.
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