Chelsea's development plan for Mateo del Blanco is already facing mixed signals in ArgentinaThe latest reports show that the situation is much less advanced than previously presented.
In our first coverage, journalist Renzo Pantich described A clear path is being prepared. He clearly stated that del Blanco 'Will be bought by Chelsea and loaned to Racing de Strasbourg'Framing this move as an expectation of something happening soon.
That version structured the deal and aligned with Chelsea's multi-club model. Strasbourg will act as a first step, allowing the 22-year-old left-back to adapt ahead of any potential move to Stamford Bridge.
However, reporting from Argentina now paints a more cautious picture.
The situation was seen differently in Santa Fe
argentina outlet hail The situation has been addressed from inside the union – and the tone is notably different.
Both the club and the player's representatives insist that there has been no formal offer from Chelsea. On the Santa Fe side, the situation is still being treated as speculation, even if Europe's interest has been acknowledged.
Importantly, it is not designed as a running deal. Instead, it is described as a rumor that is growing in visibility, but with no concrete steps behind it.
Del Blanco is attracting interest – but no offers
Ole also provides wider context about the player's rising profile. Mateo del Blanco was the top assist provider in the 2025 Clausura, registering five assists, and remains one of the standout performers in the current Apertura.
That form has already attracted attention from elsewhere in South America. Brazilian clubs such as Red Bull Bragantino and Corinthians followed him closely during the last window. However, as is the current situation with Chelsea, no formal bid was made.
The union responded to that interest by securing its future. The club extended his contract until December 2028, strengthening both his playing position and his negotiating leverage.
Youngsters still at the center of union plans
Mateo del Blanco remains a prominent figure in Santa Fe. He is a guaranteed starter under manager Leonardo Madellon and is one of the team's most influential players.
A sale would represent a significant sporting loss, even though it could become one of the club's most significant financial operations in recent years.
That balance helps explain the current stance. The club is aware of the increased attention, but is not yet dealing with any concrete situation.
Next Steps for Bluco
The new report means it now becomes a situation to monitor rather than complete.
Pentich's claims suggest internal planning and intention. Meanwhile, reporting on hail reflects the reality on the ground in Argentina, where no formal measures have been taken.
This difference is common in early stage transfers, especially in South America. Interest may persist for months before developing into conversation.
For now, Matteo del Blanco sits in between those two versions. A player clearly on Chelsea's radar, but still waiting for that interest to translate into something tangible.
🇵🇹 Exclusive: Maxi Araújo
⏩Tottenham and Chelsea are in contact
➡️ Source gave information @UllalIBT
➡️There is also further Premier League interesthttps://t.co/K17lRpjlUG #thfc #cfc- Sports Witness (@Sport_Witness) 22 March 2026
