Roman Abramovich in Spain to sanction deal for Barcelona star

Chelsea are set to defeat Manchester City to Barcelona’s youngster Ilaix Moriba, that’s according Spanish media outlet Sports on Sunday.

The Citizens were tipped as the next destination for the 16-year-old and reports even said the Premier League Champions were in advanced talks with Barcelona for his services.

Having sold academy product Brahim Diaz to Real Madrid a few weeks ago, the Premier League title holders hope to bring Moriba to Etihad stadium as the Spaniard’s replacement.

However, the Blues made a surprise last-minute move to block City’s bid from materializing and they have reportedly achieved their target.

The Sport revealed that Roman Abramovich was in Spain on Saturday to meet with Barcelona’s hierarchy to discuss over the player’s availability at the ongoing transfer window.

According to the media outlet, the discussion went well and the West London club could reach a pre-contract agreement with Moriba’s agent in the coming days.

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Moriba is one of the best midfielders in the La Masia academy and the Blaugranas are doing everything possible to hold-on to retain his services.

The La Liga giants have reportedly offered him his first professional contract in order to prevent him from leaving but the youngster rejected the deal.

In the same vein, Daily Star claimed that the young versatile player could become Sarri’s first signing of the year as the Blues might announce his signature later today.

However, Maurizio Sarri has reportedly turned his attention to another Barcelona playmaker and that’s Phillipe Coutinho who left Liverpool last winter.