Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta could extend his contact at the club despite heavy transfer interest from Barcelona this summer, according to reports.
The Blues legend has just finished his tenth season at the club, having now made 476 appearances in all competitions with 17 goals and 56 assists to his name.
His contract at Stamford Bridge was due to expire this summer but after playing a certain number of games last season, an extra year was triggered.
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Since January there has been heavy speculation over a potential move to Barcelona in the summer window.
A move to the Camp Nou would see him link up with former Chelsea man Andreas Christensen, who recently completed his transfer after his contract expired.
Marcos Alonso has also been linked with the La Liga giants, but there is now belief that Azpilicueta could remain in west London beyond the summer.
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According to Marca, Todd Boehly is set to be in London this week to address some of the club’s outstanding issues, with one of those being the future of their captain.
Barcelona boss Xavi is an admirer of the Spanish international and wants him at the club next season but it is thought that if Boehly tells the 32-year-old that he cannot leave, then he will not force a departure from the Blues.
Thomas Tuchel also wants to keep him at the club and if Azpilicueta is denied the chance to leave, then he could consider a contract renewal at Stamford Bridge.
A move away would spell the end of an era at Chelsea, with the full-back playing a key part in the club’s successes over the last ten years.
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It would also see Tuchel’s side lose their third defender of the summer, with Christensen joining Barcelona and Antonio Rudiger signing for Real Madrid.
However it is looking increasingly likely that Chelsea will see the back of another defensive option, with Alonso said to be close to a move to the Camp Nou.
Barcelona are hoping to complete the signing of the 31-year-old in the coming week, with both clubs coming close to an agreement and Tuchel allowing the player to leave.
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The only obstacle at the moment is the fee as Chelsea want north of €10 million for their left wing-back, but the Spanish outfit believe that there is room for them to negotiate this as they seek to sign Alonso for the new season.
Topics: Cesar Azpilicueta, Chelsea, Barcelona, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Football, Transfers
Robert Calcutt