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Chelsea transfer news: Paul Mariner backs Barcelona move following Gonzalo Higuain arrival
BARCELONA would be the ideal move for Alvaro Morata once Gonzalo Higuain completes his move to Chelsea.
That is according to ESPN FC pundit and former Arsenal striker Paul Mariner.
Barcelona are one of a number of clubs linked with signing Morata this month.
Fellow La Liga giants Atletico Madrid are also understood to be keen, along with Sevilla and AC Milan.
Morata has fallen out of favour at Chelsea since Maurizio Sarri took charge.
Would this work for him if Higuain comes in? Yes, get yourself away, I say it’s a hit
The Spaniard has never really been able to live up to the heights promised from his £57million arrival from Real Madrid in 2017.
Mariner admits he was a fan of Morata during his time at the Bernabeu and also at Juventus.
And he reckons a switch to Barcelona would be a good way to put an end to his time in England once Higuain is confirmed a Chelsea player.
“Well look, at Juve and Real Madrid I thought he was terrific,” Mariner said.
“I thought he would be the answer for Chelsea. It’s not happened.
“I think he is a bit fragile mentally.
“Would [joining Barcelona] work for him if Higuain comes in?
“Yes, get yourself away, I say it’s a hit.”
Express Sport understands Higuain is due to fly to London on Friday morning.
He will then undergo a medical and hammer out the terms of his loan agreement.
Higuain must be signed by 12pm on Friday to be available to play this weekend.
Chelsea visit top-four rivals Arsenal on Saturday (5.30pm).
A victory would extend the Blues' lead over the Gunners to nine points.