Chelsea have “keen interest” in £42m winger who is emerging as one of La Liga’s brightest | OneFootball

One of the big stories this weekend in European football was Real Madrid losing in the rain in Andalusia against Real Betis, dropping crucial points in what’s looking increasingly like the most exciting title race on the continent.

Under Manuel Pellegrini, Betis have had some great moments but have been struggling until recently. They’re now looking like the great entertainers again, and a major part of that has been the emergence of academy talent Jesus Rodriguez.

The 19 year old has only just broken into the first team this season, but already looks like one of the most promising young wingers in the whole of La Liga. His quick feet and dribbling skill off both wings make him a nightmare to stop, and we expect his profile to continue to rise rapidly through the end of this season.

Chelsea can offer first team action for £42m winger right off the bat

Jesus Rodriguez rides a challenge. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Inevitably, top clubs are now being linked with the youngster, with the Daily Mail today saying Chelsea are “taking a keen interest” in him. The Blues have “stepped up their interest” as the likes of Liverpool also watch closely.

He has already played at youth level for Spain, helping them to win the Under-19 Championship last year, meaning his £42m release clause isn’t looking like a crazy number at all.

Our need for a left winger, with Mykhailo Mudryk suspended indefinitely and Joao Felix loaned out with a view to a sale, means that we might be able to offer more minutes to Rodriguez than some other teams. However the impending arrival of Estevao Willian, plus the rise of academy options like Tyrique George, make it seem unlikely we make another major addition in this area unless we secure a sale first.