MEMPHIS DEPAY has emerged as a shock transfer target for Chelsea, according to reports.
The forward is ready to be let go by Barcelona if a deal can be struck in the next few hours.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Blues have emerged as late contenders to land the Dutch star.
And Barca will rip up his contract and allow him to leave for free if personal terms can be agreed with Chelsea.
Depay, 28, is surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp following the arrivals of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha this summer.
And with the club in financial ruin, getting Depay off the wage bill would be a welcome boost.
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Depay scored 12 goals in 28 LaLiga games in his first season but has been an unused sub in all three matches so far this term.
However, there are just a few hours to go until the 11pm deadline.
It is said Depay – linked with a free transfer to Juventus or even a shock return to Manchester United earlier in the window – put in a request to leave the club on Wednesday.
However, Barcelona will only sanction the termination of his contract if he can strike a deal with Chelsea in time as Thomas Tuchel looks to bolster his attack.
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But Romano adds there are no advanced talks taking place at this stage.
Chelsea’s primary focus is securing Depay’s Barcelona team-mate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
It is understood a £12million fee plus Marcos Alonso is in place to land the former Arsenal captain on a two-year deal with an option of a third.
Aubameyang will land in London around 5pm to complete the final details of his Stamford Bridge switch, just seven months after being shipped out by Mikel Arteta at the Emirates.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
