Barcelona could return to Chelsea for Cesar Azpilicueta as Xavi Hernandez seeks an experienced, cost-effective right-back option.
According to SPORT, Barcelona could return with an approach for Cesar Azpilicueta in the summer if he becomes available. The Chelsea veteran could depart the club if Reece James’s fitness convinces them.
Chelsea stood their ground last summer and kept hold of Cesar Azpilicueta when the Spaniard looked increasingly close to joining Barcelona. Part of the move not materialising was due to Thomas Tuchel’s insistence on keeping the experienced right-back. There were also tensions with the Catalan club over transfer targets.
Azpilicueta ended up signing a new deal with the club, which now lasts until 2024. The move may have come to benefit Chelsea, who have suffered due to the injury-enforced absence of Reece James. The first-choice right wing-back suffered a knee problem before the World Cup. His recent return was seemingly cut short by a relapse of the original problem.
There are considerable doubts about James keeping his fitness levels up. Hence Azpilicueta could play a significant role for the club this term. They might evaluate James’s fitness for next season and then decide on allowing the Spanish defender to depart.
Recent reports claim that Chelsea will sign Malo Gusto from Lyon, although the right-back will remain at the French side for the next six months. With the Blues having enough options in the position, the club captain could depart. Barcelona retains an interest in the Spaniard.
Xavi Hernandez is not yet convinced with his options at right-back and feels they lack an experienced head there. Azpilicueta already showed an interest in joining them last summer, which may remain the case. Barcelona want to sign the Chelsea veteran only if he is cost-effective.
The Catalan giants already have plenty of financial troubles, and ideally, they want to avoid paying any transfer fee. Azpilicueta will have a year left on his deal in the summer, and Chelsea might consider letting him depart for nothing.
Azpilicueta could replace Hector Bellerin, who has been unconvincing since joining on a free transfer. The former Arsenal defender only signed a year-long deal, meaning the Blaugrana may not have to worry about letting him go. The Chelsea veteran could become a good option and deputy for Jules Kounde.
