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Chelsea and Arsenal track Boca Juniors talent Tomás Aranda

·By Paul Vegas
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Chelsea and Arsenal track Boca Juniors talent Tomás Aranda

Boca Juniors/X.com

Chelsea and Arsenal are monitoring Boca Juniors midfielder Tomás Aranda, but the 19-year-old’s serious injury means any potential transfer is likely to depend on his recovery.

The Argentine teenager has attracted attention from several European clubs after breaking into Boca’s first team, although no formal offers have been reported.

Napoli are also following Aranda, according to El Intransigente, with the three clubs understood to be monitoring his progress rather than negotiating a transfer. Chelsea are reportedly considering whether to sign him and subsequently send him on loan to sister club Strasbourg.

Aranda made his senior debut in January 2026 and went on to make 32 appearances in all competitions, scoring once and registering two assists before his season was interrupted by injury.

The midfielder suffered a fractured right fibula in August and underwent surgery. Boca expect him to miss the remainder of 2026, with his return anticipated during pre-season in 2027. That recovery timeline is likely to influence the next steps for any interested club.

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Aranda’s contract runs until December 2029, giving Boca considerable protection against losing one of their emerging talents. Reports have cited a release clause of US$20 million, rising to US$25 million under certain market conditions.

The differing figures reflect the terms reported in Argentina and should not be treated as a single fixed euro valuation. Boca’s preference is to retain the player unless a suitor activates the relevant clause.

Aranda’s emergence has drawn attention beyond club football, with Lionel Messi having praised the youngster publicly. His versatility and ability to operate in advanced positions have added to his appeal.

Chelsea and Arsenal were linked with the player during the summer, but neither completed a deal. Their reported interest has continued as Boca assess how best to manage his development and recovery.

For now, the situation remains at an early stage. Aranda’s injury means that any potential move is likely to depend on his rehabilitation and how quickly he can return to competitive football. Boca have not received a formal offer, and there is no confirmed agreement with any of his reported suitors.