Chelsea and Manchester United consider activating release clause for Barcelona midfielder

Barcelona continue to produce an abundance of talented youngsters at La Masia, and most frequently of all, central midfielders. Manchester United and Chelsea are considering making an approach to poach one of their emerging talents.

According to SkySports, both United and Chelsea are considering activating the €6m release clause for 17-year-old midfielder Juan Hernandez. He turns 18 in July, making him eligible for a move, and has played a starring role in the triumph of the under-19 side in the UEFA Youth League under Juliano Belletti, scoring a brace in the semi-final. Were he to move to Chelsea, they would likely loan him to Strasbourg next season.

The view from Spain on Juan Hernandez

The report was carried by Catalan outlet Sport, who have added some details on his future. Barcelona are hoping that the project on offer in Catalonia is sufficient for him to turn down interest from the Premier League, with Hernandez on course to make the jump to Barca Atletic after eight appearances with the affiliate side in the third division earlier in the season. With his contract expiring in 2026, they do not mention any plans to offer him a new deal.