Chelsea make contact to sign Argentinian defensive youth prospect

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July 25, 2025 05:25 GMT (UK), by Ketan Patel

Gonzalo Escudero is a target for Chelsea this summer, as the Blues look to conclude a busy summer of transfer activity. The 18-year-old central defender is considered one of the brightest prospects in his homeland, is currently playing for Racing, and has already represented Argentina’s under-17 side. Chelsea are also in a battle to sign Escudero with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, both of whom are rumoured to have made contact with Racing with regard to a potential transfer move.

Escudero is a versatile defensive player, most happy at the heart of central defence but also able to play as a defensive midfielder, and is strong in the air and gifted with the ball at his feet, rare for a defensive prospect. The player also is left-footed, and Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca hopes to add balance to his defence with some left-sided central defenders.

In August 2023, manager Fernando Gago called him up to the first team; he made his senior debut on August 26 against Tigre in the Copa de la Liga Profesional, entering as a substitute. He has a strong physical presence and has unique technical precision with the ball which is uncommon for his age.

Racing are looking for at least $20 million should they sell Escudero.