Barca boss Ernesto Valverde has apparently told the Catalan side’s owners to do whatever it takes to keep the midfielder at the club, according to Don Balon.
The blues have been heavily linked with him lately with reports saying Conte is very keen to get him to Stamford Bridge.
theshedender.com report 25 year old Sergi Roberto has a €40million buyout clause sealed in his contract and the Blues were willing to trigger it in order to bring the Spanish international to Stamford Bridge.
Last summer, the Blues enquired about Roberto’s situation but were promptly told by Barca that the player was not for sale. However, the emergence of a release clause could change things.
Don Balon also are reporting that Valverde identifies Roberto as an big part of the first team squad as he can play in a few positions. With the boss seeing the star as indispensable.
It’s said the Catalan club could offer the player a new deal to raise the buyout price.
Roberto’s current contract at the Camp Nou runs until 2019, and with the utility man heading into the last two years of his agreement, a new proposal will likely be on the horizon anyway.
See also
Chelsea back on Barcelona defender Sergi Roberto
Conte reveals Costa knew in January he wasn’t wanted
Cesc Fabregas confesses he used to hate this Chelsea Player
