Chelsea, Manchester United ready to trigger Barcelona youth prodigy’s €6m release clause | OneFootball

Barcelona Juvenil A team achieved great success under Juliano Belletti this season, winning a historic treble by lifting the Copa del Rey Juvenil, the Division de Honor Juvenil de Futbol (Spanish League), and the UEFA Youth League.

One of the key members of the squad that made history is 17-year-old attacking midfield prodigy Juan Hernandez.

The La Masia gem is considered one of the most talented and exciting prospects coming through the youth ranks and showcased his potential with the Juvenil A team this season.

Chelsea, Manchester United ready to strike

As such, Sky Sports (h/t SPORT) now reports that Chelsea and Manchester United are closely monitoring Juan Hernandez and are prepared to pay the Barcelona youth prospect’s release clause.

The Premier League giants are considering activating the €6 million (£5 million) clause in the Spanish U-19 international’s contract once he turns 18 in July.

The attacking midfielder played a decisive role in Barcelona Juvenil A winning the UEFA Youth League this season, scoring two goals – including the semi-final winner vs AZ Alkmaar.

Both the Premier League clubs are continuing their strategy of signing top young talent from around the world with Hernandez now on their radars.

Chelsea, in particular, are considering a plan that would involve loaning Hernandez to their affiliate club, Strasbourg, in France, to continue his development.

Barcelona hopeful of keeping hold of Juan Hernandez

Meanwhile, Barcelona remain hopeful of keeping hold of Hernandez. The youngster started the season with Barça Atletic, appearing in eight matches, before becoming a key figure in Juliano Belletti’s successful Juvenil A side.

The 17-year-old attacking midfielder, capable of playing in other positions, is under contract until 2026, and the logical next step would be a return to Barça Atlètic next season.

However, that plan depends heavily on which division the reserve team ends up in – RFEF Primera Division or Segunda Division.

If the team is relegated to the Segunda Division, the club may opt to loan out several of their most promising players like Hernandez to teams in higher divisions.