Chelsea Transfer News: Latest Sergi Roberto, Ballou Jean-Yves Tabla Rumours

Chelsea are ready to activate the release clause of Barcelona's Sergi Roberto as they strengthen their defensive options, according to reports.

Spanish newspaper Sport (h/t Joe Miles of The Sun) reported the Premier League champions will force Barca to sell the talented 25-year-old by matching the £37.5 million release fee in his current contract. The Camp Nou giants would then be powerless to stop the utility player moving to west London.

The Spain international can play in midfield and defence and would offer cover across several positions and roles for Chelsea manager Antonio Conte.

Manu Fernandez/Associated Press

Roberto featured 40 times for his team in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League last term, according to WhoScored.com.

He has developed into one of Barca's most reliable talents, coming through the club's fabled youth system.

Chelsea must swell their numbers because of increased games next season as they defend their English title whilst venturing around Europe.

In other Blues news, Chelsea are scouting MLS talent Ballou Jean-Yves Tabla after Blues legend Didier Drogba highlighted his progress to the club.

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

According to Peter O'Rourke of ESPN FC (h/t Joel Watson of the Daily Star), the youngster has excelled for Montreal Impact, but Red Bull Salzburg are weighing up a bid for the 18-year-old prodigy.

The teenager has already played 18 games in the American league, per Watson, and he is becoming feared on the wing as he's able to play on both flanks.

Here is the attacker in action:

Tabla would be little use to Chelsea at present, and he needs plenty of development before jumping to the big leagues.

The Blues have a myriad of talented youngsters at Cobham, and Tabla would be immediately loaned out if Chelsea decide to offer him a deal.

Roberto has impressed for Barca in the past 12 months, but he has creases to iron out if he wants to play in England.

The player fits Conte's favoured tactics, but the physical nature of the Premier League could challenge how successful he is.