Chelsea are now looking to take a lead in the race to sign Atletico Madrid sensation Koke after La Liga rivals Barcelona have pulled out of the race, according to recent reports. The Blues have kept tabs on the midfield genius for months and are preparing to make a bid for the Spaniard at the end of the season.
Barca were previously planning to make a deal for Koke for next January, waiting for their transfer embargo to be lifted, but recent reports say now that they have dropped the idea of signing him. This will allow the west London side to hold talks with the player and discuss terms about a possible move. Jose Mourinho wants more quality in his midfield and will want to bring the 23 year old to Stamford Bridge. The Spanish champions on the other hand will try to keep Koke, but a £44m offer could see the switch happen and the midfield superstar could be playing for the Premier League side soon.