Chelsea could make a move for exciting Brazilian attacker Gabriel Barbosa in the January transfer window, as per reports.
Barbosa, popularly known as Gabigol, currently plays for Inter Milan and only recently returned to the club after a loan spell at Brazilian side Flamengo.
Express have reported that manager Frank Lampard is a fan of the 23-year-old, who impressed in the Copa Libertadores – scoring both goals in the dramatic final – as well as the Brazilian league, both of which were won by Flamengo.
The report states that the Blues manager could allow French striker Olivier Giroud to join Inter Milan as part of the deal that could bring Barbosa to Stamford Bridge. Giroud’s contract with the London expires at the end of the current season.
Barbosa, who made the switch to the Italian club in 2016, played just 10 games for the side, before being shipped out on loan to three different clubs in the space of two years.
Gabriel ‘Gabigol’ Barbosa – The right fit for Lampard?
Barbosa came to the limelight after scoring heavily for Santos, his first club, which earned him a move to Inter Milan. But, he didn’t quite get many opportunities at the Italian club, following which he was loaned out.
In the last two seasons, while playing for Brazilian sides Santos and Flamengo, the 23-year-old has scored a total of 70 goals in all competitions in both seasons.
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In the recently concluded season, Gabigol scored a whopping 43 goals, helping Flamengo to three trophies.
The Brazilian is a flamboyant attacker who is quick, skilful and not afraid to take on players. Barbosa primarily plays as a centre-forward, but he is also capable of playing out wide on the right side or as a second striker.
His confident finishing, along with his dribbling and movement, would make him a great addition to the young Chelsea attack.
Tammy Abraham has had a fantastic season with the Blues, but it’s quite obvious that Lampard needs another option up front. Barbosa will add depth and quality, as well as flair, to the Chelsea forward line, and could form a good partnership with the likes of Christian Pulisic and Mason Mount.
Lampard should pursue this transfer as Barbosa could be the X-Factor that the Blues need in their team.
He is a great guy i love him he is fit for chelsea