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Chelsea could use their involvement at the FIFA Club World Cup this month to get a closer look at highly-rated Palmeiras midfielder Gabriel Menino. The Blues have been linked with Menino since early 2021 and could face him in Abu Dhabi later this week.
Thomas Tuchel currently isn't in Abu Dhabi. (Image: GETTY)
The Blues' eyes might not be solely on lifting the trophy on Saturday, though, with Menino set to be in action whilst they're in the Middle East.
In April 2021, Fabrizio Romano said: "Yes, a new name for European football, for Chelsea and other clubs that are looking at him [Menino]. We are talking about scouting, so no negotiation at the moment."
Mundo Deportivo linked Chelsea to the 21-year-old around a similar time, as well as Atletico Madrid, Juventus and Tottenham.
And despite Menino having a £51million release clause in his Palmeiras contract, it's claimed that the Brazilian club would find an offer worth £13m difficult to turn down.
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Menino also can deliver a wicked cross from the right and is regularly on corner duty for Palmeiras.
Brazil manager Tite has previously called him up to the senior squad and has claimed his future is at right-back, labelling him Dani Alves' successor.
But whilst Thomas Tuchel might have identified Menino as a target, he might not be in Abu Dhabi to witness him play in the flesh after testing positive for Covid.
Chelsea first-team coach Zsolt Low has confirmed Tuchel is working remotely to give his input in team preparation ahead of Wednesday's clash with Al-Hilal.
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