Chelsea have made an official approach for Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa also known as Gabigol according to the Daily Mail.
It was confirmed that West Ham United also want to sign Gabigol who is on loan at Flamengo from Italian Serie A leaders Inter Milan.
Gabriel Barbosa was instrumental to the success of Flamengo in the COPA Libertadores last year after he netted twice to lead the Brazilian club to the title ahead of champions River Plate.
Flamengo had to come from behind to see off River Plate who were the COPA Libertadores title holders before the Brazilians succeeded them via a 2-1 win in their final meeting.
- United battle Liverpool for Lucas Paqueta, how will United lineup with the £44m-rated playmaker?
- Manchester United’s Confirm January Transfer Shortlist ‘Revealed’
- Another Arsenal Player Ruled Out For Three Months
Gabigol scored a brace to help Flamengo come from a goal deficit to take the COPA Libertadores title.
The Hammers signed French striker Sebastien Haller for £45m last summer but he has struggled at times in the Premier League and that has led the East London club into the transfer market.
West Ham are hopeful of signing Gabigol but they will have to see off their rivals Chelsea who have already contacted his parent club Inter Milan over a move.
As things stand, Gabriel Barbosa don’t have a future at Inter Milan under manager Antonio Conte.
