Chelsea open talks with Boca Juniors over Aaron Anselmino transfer

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - APRIL 9: Aaron Anselmino of Boca Juniors celebrates after scoring the team's first goal during the Copa CONMEBOL Sudamericana 2024 group D match between Boca Juniors and Sportivo Trinidense at Estadio Alberto J. Armando on April 9, 2024 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
By Simon Johnson
Jun 20, 2024

Chelsea have opened talks with Boca Juniors over the signing of defender Aaron Anselmino.

The 19-year-old, who can also play in midfield, has played just 10 times for the senior Boca Juniors side so far having come through the Argentine club’s youth ranks.

Despite his career being at such an early stage, Anselmino’s performances has led to speculation over interest from European clubs in recent months.

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Chelsea have made a move to beat any potential competition for the teenager’s signature by starting initial discussions with Boca over signing him.

There are reports in Argentina suggesting Chelsea have offered a fee worth £14.1million plus a further £3.1m in add-ons. This has not been confirmed by Chelsea but they are negotiating over the fee.

Anselmino is not the only young transfer target from South America on their wishlist though. Looking for some of the best emerging talent in the region is just part of Chelsea’s recruitment model.

Last month they agreed a deal worth up to €57m for Palmeiras winger Willian Estevao. The 17-year-old will officially join up with the squad next summer, after he has turned 18.

go-deeper

GO DEEPER

Chelsea's aggressive youth recruitment means days of signing players at peak are over

(Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

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Simon Johnson

Simon Johnson has spent the majority of his career as a sports reporter since 2000 covering Chelsea, firstly for Hayters and then the London Evening Standard. This included going to every game home and away as the west London club secured the Champions League in 2012. He has also reported on the England national team between 2008-19 and been a regular contributor to talkSPORT radio station for over a decade. Follow Simon on Twitter @SJohnsonSport