Kevin Phillips insists Tottenham boss Antonio Conte could be interested in Cesar Azpilicueta if the Chelsea defender becomes a free agent in the summer.
Cesar Azpilicueta has had a sensational career at Chelsea but could call it a day at the end of the season. The Spaniard’s contract ends in six months, which could see him leave Stamford Bridge as a free agent. With more than 450 appearances, the Blues had extracted more value from the £8 million fees they paid Marseille for the defender.
Chelsea’s policy of handing players over the age of 30 only 12-month deals puts Azpilicueta in a tight spot as the defender seeks a new three-year agreement. These are indications the defender might be ready to end his stay at Stamford Bridge and look for a new challenge elsewhere.
There have been suggestions that he could return to Spain, with a move to Barcelona could be on the cards. The Catalans have been interested and could be looking at his experience to improve their young squad under Xavi Hernandez.
Meanwhile, there is also the interest from Real Madrid, who are looking at players of Azpilicueta’s quality to shore up their backline. However, there could be offers from within the Premier League, with Tottenham mentioned as a possible new destination for the experienced Spaniard.
Former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips insists Antonio Conte could be interested in the Chelsea captain if he becomes a free agent in the summer. He told Football Insider, Tottenham could make do with Azpilicueta’s leadership qualities and the experience he brings to the table, something they lack at the back.
Phillips said, “100 per cent, Conte will be interested. I’m certain of it because Azpilicueta is a player whom he knows and a player who did well for him. He’s been so consistent since coming to the Premier League. You know what you are going to get from him.
“He’s a leader as well, and that’s something Spurs perhaps lack. I think Conte would love to sign a player of his experience. If things don’t work out at Chelsea, I would not be surprised if Azpilicueta crossed London to join Spurs. It’d be a shock but I don’t think it’s impossible.”
Tottenham are one of Chelsea’s rivals and considering Azpilicueta’s dedication and commitment to the Blues it is highly unlikely he would decide to cross the divide. As things stand, the west Londoners could yet convince the defender to stay put, although time is running out for them.