Chelsea now have added advantage to sign long-term transfer target for just £46m after secret talks

Chelsea full-back Marc Cucurella has revealed he’s been trying to convince his international teammate Nico Williams to snub strong interest from Barcelona and instead move to London with him when the Euros come to an end.

Cucurella has been Spain’s first-choice left-back and he’s been subtly promoting the idea of a move to Stamford Bridge in camp, something most Chelsea fans will love given their long-standing admiration for Williams.

In an interview with Spanish outlet SPORT, the Chelsea left-back admitted he’s been doing some convincing behind the scenes. He said: “He is a great player, he is bringing out all his potential.

“It is a source of pride that he is on our team, that he is our teammate and with players like him everything is easier.

“He would be a great signing [for Barcelona], but it all depends on what he wants. I’ve been telling him to sign for Chelsea.

“In the end, everything depends on him, he is very young, with a lot of experience. I think he will be a great player.”

Williams is one of the stars of the ongoing Euros where he has been magnificent for Spain, who take on Germany in the next round with both teams coming into the tournament as huge favourites.

The 21-year-old, who has a £46.5m release clause, has started three of Spain’s four games over in Germany and scored in their last-16 victory over Georgia. Chelsea are looking to make Stamford Bridge the hotbed for the best talents in the world but signing Williams will be the icing on the cake with his speed and ability to unlock defenses, a trait that match-going fans will adore.

Another advantage Chelsea have ahead of Barcelona for the deal is that the Spanish club are reportedly struggling financially and will need to find a good agreement with Athletic Bilbao if they are to snatch one of their prized assets.