Barcelona have moved to secure the long-term future of teenage defender Pau Cubarsi by raising his release clause to a staggering £855 million (€1 billion), effectively ending any hopes Chelsea or Tottenham may have had of signing him. The 17-year-old centre-back had been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge last summer, with reports suggesting the Blues had pushed to sign him before his first-team debut.
Barcelona responded to the initial speculation by extending Cubarsi's contract until June 2026, but his release clause was set at just £13 million, making him an affordable target for interested clubs. However, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Catalan giants have now dramatically increased that clause to ensure they retain control over his future. The final details of the agreement, in which former Barcelona star Deco has played a key role, are being finalised with an official announcement expected in the coming weeks.
Cubarsi made his first-team debut in the Copa del Rey in January at the age of 16 and has since impressed in La Liga and the Champions League. He became the youngest player to debut in the Champions League knockout phase at 17 years and 50 days, and later the youngest to start a quarter-final. His performances have drawn comparisons to some of Barcelona's greatest defenders.
For Chelsea, the news is a significant blow as they face financial restrictions this summer. The club is battling to comply with Premier League profit and sustainability rules, and their failure to qualify for the Champions League next season has further limited their spending power. With Thiago Silva set to leave at the end of the season, Chelsea were expected to strengthen their defence, but a move for Cubarsi now appears impossible.
