Chelsea circle as bidding war for Michael Noonan heats up

Barcelona pondered an approach for Noonan before choosing the ‘new Mo Salah’.

BLUE IS THE COLOUR?: Chelsea are the latest superpower to track Irish teen Michael Noonan. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

Chelsea are the latest superpower to track Irish teen Michael Noonan as TSG Hoffenheim, third in the Bundesliga, failed to reach the valuation of €2m set by Shamrock Rovers with initial bids.

Brexit regulations prevent the Ireland U21 striker from joining a UK club until after he turns 18 in July and the Germans are keen to profit by luring Noonan this month.