Chelsea’s 18-year-old striker Marc Guiu insists ‘I’m ready to be on the pitch’ and fight for a place in Enzo Maresca’s side after £5m summer switch

Chelsea’s new 18-year-old striker Marc Guiu has not yet decided whether he will be loaned out next season, but he says he is ready to cope with the physical conditions of the Premier League if he is allowed to stay.

Guiu has played in all four of Chelsea’s friendlies in the United States since joining from Barcelona for £5million, starting three of them as he hopes to compete with Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku for the striker position.

Chelsea regarded Guiu’s modest transfer fee as a bargain and the No.9 has impressed during his pre-season performances, particularly with his ability to hold up the ball given his age.

The graduate of Barcelona’s famous La Masia academy said in Catalan through an interpreter: ‘He (Maresca) told me that there was a great sports project full of young talent, that he wanted me to take part in it and that he had a lot of confidence in me and my skills and abilities.

“I think I’m ready (for the Premier League). We work very hard every day, both on and off the pitch, on the physical side and the practical side. So I think I’m ready to be on the pitch.”

Guiu has played in all four of Chelsea’s friendlies in the United States since signing for Enzo Maresca’s team for £5million

Guiu backs himself to compete with Nicolas Jackson for the striker position

The No.9 has impressed in his pre-season performances and will hope to challenge Christopher Nkunku for a place in the Chelsea squad

He spoke to Juliano Belletti, the former Chelsea defender who is now a coach at Barcelona’s B team, before signing

Guiu spoke to Juliano Belletti, the former Chelsea defender who is now Barcelona B team coach, before signing, to discuss whether it was the right move for him.

When asked if he has been told whether he will be loaned out to gain experience, Guiu said: ‘I am just focusing on preparing for the season, I am doing my best and that is what I can say.

‘It was a difficult decision (to leave Barcelona), but I always wanted to play in the Premier League and this was a great opportunity, so I had to take it.

‘It wasn’t a problem with my contract. I’ve always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and Chelsea is a great club with a lot of history.

“I’m very happy to be at the club. It’s a great experience. I’m trying to do my best and get the best out of myself.”