Since their acquisition by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital in 2022, Chelsea has aggressively targeted South American football talent. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Premier League club is now advancing negotiations with Gremio for Gabriel Mec.
Born in 2008, Mec has shown a strong desire to join Chelsea, prompting the club to enter serious negotiations with Gremio. Brazilian media outlet Radio Bandeirantes reported that Chelsea is preparing a €20 million (£17m/$22m) bid for Mec, structured as €7m (£5.92m/$7.5m) upfront and an additional €13m (£11m/$14m) in performance-related add-ons. There is also speculation that Gremio might retain a 15% stake in Mec’s future transfer rights.
Meanwhile, UOL reported that Chelsea has sent representatives to Brazil to expedite the negotiations. The current offer from Chelsea is €7m plus €7m in add-ons, but Gremio is holding out for a higher fixed sum of €10m (£8m/$11m) with an additional €10m in potential add-ons.
Despite not yet debuting for Gremio’s first team, Mec has made an impact in the Brazilian Under-20 Championship, with six appearances and one goal. His potential has attracted interest from not only Chelsea but also European giants like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund, who are closely monitoring the situation.
If Chelsea successfully secures Mec’s signature, the young midfielder will not be able to join the club until he turns 18, in accordance with international transfer regulations for minors. This mirrors the pathway of other South American talents like Kendry Paez and Estevao, who have agreed to moves but will only join their respective clubs upon reaching the eligible age.