In a transfer window packed with drama, Chelsea once again made headlines with their aggressive recruitment drive. But one pursuit that slipped through their fingers was Barcelona’s latest La Masia jewel: Marc Bernal, the 18-year-old midfielder already tipped for stardom.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea explored the possibility of signing Bernal, with plans to hand him one of their trademark long-term deals and immediately loan him to sister club Strasbourg for regular minutes. Yet despite the Blues’ interest, the teenager himself shut the door—insisting his future lies only at Barcelona.
The Stamford Bridge side weren’t the only ones circling. Saudi giants Al Nassr, leveraging their extended U-21 transfer window, launched a bold move to lure Bernal to Riyadh. But just like with Chelsea, the midfielder’s response was unequivocal: no exit, no sale.
A Comeback Story Already Writing Itself
Bernal’s resolve comes after a difficult year. The youngster missed more than 12 months with a torn ACL, returning only this spring in Barcelona’s 6–0 demolition of Valencia—where he celebrated with a debut assist. That glimpse of class was enough to remind fans and suitors alike why he’s so highly regarded.
Manager Hansi Flick has been equally impressed. Before his injury, Bernal started Barça’s first three matches of the 2024–25 campaign, displaying maturity well beyond his years. With Gavi sidelined long-term, Flick may now lean even more on the teenager, accelerating his rise into the spotlight.
Priceless at Just $18M
Valued at around $18 million, Bernal is exactly the type of rare, homegrown talent Europe’s elite would love to steal away. But loyalty, not money, is driving his path.
For now, Barcelona fans can breathe easy: their prodigy is going nowhere. And by turning down both Chelsea and Al Nassr before his career has even truly begun, Marc Bernal has already made one thing clear—he is not for sale.
