Transfer News: Chelsea keen on 18-year-old South American sensation

Chelsea interested in Argentine youth star Luciano Vera

According to the French publication FootMercato (h/t Express), Chelsea are keeping tabs on River Plate youngster Luciano Vera.

The 18-year-old is held in high regard and is sought after. The Blues will face competition from Olympic Lyonnais and Lazio for his signature.

The youngster primarily plays at right-back but is equally capable of doing a job on the other flank.

Chelsea are interested in Luciano Vera
Chelsea are interested in Luciano Vera

Chelsea has become a haven for young talents given Frank Lampard’s penchant to keep faith in youngsters. The Blues have also embarked on an ambitious summer rebuild.

The likes of Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner have already joined while the club continues to be linked to Kai Havertz and Ben Chilwell. This does not mean that the Blues will forgo a talented youth star.

Vera is yet to make a senior appearance for the Argentine giants. This has however done little to discount the interest garnered. The report also goes on to say that Chelsea view the youngster as a very affordable option.

Vera is yet to make a senior appearance for River Plate
Vera is yet to make a senior appearance for River Plate

Defence is an area that the Blues need to focus on this summer. Strengthening the attack is all well and good. However, having seen the performances our back four have put up, no attack can keep scoring bucketloads every game.

Vera has made 14 appearances for the Argentine Under-17 side. He was part of the youth squad that won the CONMEBOL Under-17 Championship in 2019.

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The Argentine is not the only youngster on the club’s radar. Chelsea are also keen on Sao Paulo teenager Gustavo Maia, Sparta Prague forward Adam Hlozek and Monaco’s Malamine Efekele. (h/t Express)