Chelsea have stepped up their transfer interest in £42m Real Betis winger Jesus Rodriguez, according to reports.
The 19-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season in La Liga and has caught the eye of elite scouts following a number of stellar performances.
Known for his remarkable speed, Rodriguez has spent his entire senior career at Real Betis to date, making 16 first-team appearances so far.
Rodriguez provided an assist in Real Betis’ impressive 2-1 victory over Spanish giants Real Madrid in their last top-flight game on Saturday.
The highly-rated teenager has a has a release clause worth up to £42m, according to the Daily Mail, with Chelsea taking a keen interest in him.
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The Blues may decide to make an official transfer approach for Rodriguez in the next summer transfer window at the end of the current season.
Rodriguez has shined at Real Betis under the management of former Manchester City and West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini.
He helped Spain clinch the U19 European Championship title in 2024 and was lauded by Real Madrid star Dani Ceballos last month on social media.
Real Madrid midfielder Ceballos, who previously played for Real Betis, and spent time on loan at Arsenal from 2019 to 2021, posted on X: ‘Shield the 36 (Rodriguez’s shirt number at Real Betis) because what a player.’
Real Betis boss Pellegrini feels Rodriguez has bags of potential and singled him out for praise in February.
‘He has the qualities to become a great player,’ Pellegrini said about Rodriguez. ‘Although he’s still in the formative stage.
‘I’m not surprised by him. I’ve been following his progress for several years, and he was with us during pre-season.’
Rodriguez was originally playing on the right wing for Real Betis this term before the arrival of Antony on loan from Manchester United in January.
Since Antony came in, Rodriguez has shifted over the the left wing and has continued to impress for the Spanish side.
Liverpool are also thought to be monitoring Rodriguez’s progress but Chelsea appear to currently be the most likely club to land his signature.
The Blues have built a reputation of prioritising transfer moves for young players who they can sign on long-term contracts under Todd Boehly et al.
Rodriguez could be set to become the latest youngster to head over to Stamford Bridge, should Chelsea decide to trigger his release clause and agree terms with the player.
