Chelsea have offered Inter Milan €70 million for star midfielder Nicolo Barella, although the Nerazzurri’s price tag is higher.

This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who report that the Nerazzurri have rebuffed the Blues’ initial offer and made clear that a player of Barella’s calibre will cost considerably more than €70 million.

With the opening of the summer transfer window, the rumour mill is starting to kick into gear.

One player who has been at the centre of some sensational links is Inter and Italy star Barella.

A few days ago, a report emerged from UK media suggesting that Newcastle United want to sign Barella. That report went so far as to claim that the Magpies were close to wrapping up a deal.

In contrast, the reality appears to be that Inter have little interest in selling Barella.

The 25-year-old is a key player for the Nerazzurri, and their response to Newcastle’s interest was a very cold one. Whilst Inter may well listen to offers even for a player like Barella, there will be no cut-price fees.

Chelsea Join Newcastle In The Race For Inter Megastar Nicolo Barella

Another Premier League club keen on Barella are Chelsea.

Despite not being in the Champions League, the Blues are still dreaming of the 26-year-old ex-Cagliari man as a midfield reinforcement.

Moreover, Chelsea already have their foot in the door in a certain sense. The Londoners are in active talks with the Nerazzurri regarding players like Romelu Lukaku and Kalidou Koulibaly.

Accordingly, Chelsea want to join Newcastle in the race for Barella.

According to the Gazzetta, the Blues have tested the water with an offer worth around €70 million.

However, Inter have rebuffed this initial approach.

Whilst the Gazzetta note that Inter President Steven Zhang would likely feel that the club must consider truly huge money offers even when it comes to a player like Barella, Chelsea’s offer is not particularly close to reaching that point.

The Nerazzurri have made clear that they will not sell their star midfielder for anything like what Chelsea have offered.