Chelsea could yet move into a stronger position than Manchester United for Marc Bernal, but only if their interest develops further in the months ahead. The Barcelona midfielder remains part of the club’s 2026/27 first-team squad, so any January switch is still only a possible outcome if his route to regular minutes does not improve.
- Chelsea are keeping tabs on Bernal as a possible long-term midfield option, with no bid, talks or agreement established.
- Bernal is still a Barcelona first-team player for 2026/27 and wears the No. 22 shirt.
- Manchester United are also tracking the midfielder, while Chelsea would only look the likelier destination if their interest gathers pace.
Marc Bernal’s Current Situation at Barcelona
Marc Bernal remains currently in Barcelona’s first-team picture, which remains a key factor in his future. His recent involvement shows he is not being pushed towards the exit.
Barcelona have continued to use Bernal across domestic and European competitions. He featured recently against Feyenoord in the Champions League, while he has also appeared in La Liga matches against Valencia, Rayo Vallecano, Athletic Bilbao and Elche.
His 2025/26 league record also supports that. Bernal made 22 La Liga appearances last season, including nine starts, and contributed two goals and one assist. As a La Masia product with one senior Spain cap, he still looks like a player Barcelona see as part of their longer-term project rather than someone already lined up for a permanent exit.
Rodri’s Arrival and the Fight for Minutes
Rodri’s arrival has added another layer of competition in Barcelona’s midfield, and that is where the uncertainty around Bernal stems from. It does not automatically mean he is leaving, but it may affect how easy it is for him to carve out regular minutes.
Meaningful playing time appears to be the key issue for Bernal and his camp. His representatives have reportedly held talks with sporting director Deco to get clarity over his position, while Barcelona still believe his ability to operate in multiple midfield roles can help him stay involved.
The situation therefore remains open, with Barcelona still viewing Bernal as part of the wider project.
Chelsea’s Conditional Advantage Over Manchester United
Manchester United are tracking Bernal’s situation, but no formal approach has been established.
Chelsea’s interest makes sense as part of a broader midfield search, with Bernal viewed as a potential long-term option rather than a nailed-on January arrival. He has reportedly been considered alongside other midfield names, which underlines that this is still a live piece of planning rather than a finalised deal.
If Chelsea do decide to step up their interest, they could become the more likely destination, although that would still depend on Bernal’s pathway at Barcelona changing.
