Chelsea Could Launch A Move For This Atletico Madrid Midfielder: Should Maresca Go For Him?

In a recent report, Fichajes revealed that Chelsea could launch a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios. It has been stated that the Blues would have to compete with Liverpool in the race to sign the Spanish talent next year.

Barrios’ Impressive Form In La Liga

Barrios has put in a handful of impressive displays at the centre of Atletico Madrid’s midfield so far in this campaign. The 22-year-old has scored one goal in 12 league matches for the Spanish outfit this season in multiple competitions.

The Spanish talent has anchored the midfield well and has done well to make 16 tackles, nine blocks, 15 interceptions and ten clearances in La Liga. He has even been accurate when distributing the ball after completing 84.7% of his attempted passes in the Spanish first division (stats via fbref.com).

His current contract at Stamford Bridge will run out in the summer of 2030. Hence, the Blues would have to make a convincing offer if they are serious about recruiting Barrios next year.

Chelsea
MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 08: Pablo Barrios of Atletico de Madrid celebrates his team’s first goal which was an own goal scored by Adrian de la Fuente of Levante UD (not pictured) during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Atletico de Madrid and Levante UD at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on November 08, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Should Chelsea Boss Enzo Maresca Go For Barrios?

Barrios loves a tackle and can scan the danger well to make some important interceptions for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when needed and is a good passer of the ball as well.

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However, the Spanish sensation has to add a few goals to his game if he wants to taste success at the highest level. Furthermore, there are some question marks over whether he can adapt to the physical side and high intensity of the Premier League if the Blues manage to land him next year.

We can expect Barrios to add more bite and steel to Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca’s midfield. He is good enough to fight for a regular first-team spot at the West London club in the coming seasons.

At 22, Barrios has got the potential to be a future star in European football as long as he continues to improve with each year. Hence, Maresca would be wise to go for a player of his ceiling this winter or at the end of this campaign.