Barcelona chiefs were present at the Santiago Bernabeu, hoping to watch at least three of Chelsea’s players ahead of the summer.
On Tuesday night, Barcelona chiefs Jordi Cryuff and Mateu Alemany were at the Santiago Bernabeu, hoping to catch glimpses of three Chelsea players. According to Sport and Fichajes, the Catalans are keen on the Blues trio, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Cesar Azpilicueta and N’Golo Kante.
Chelsea and Barcelona had a stiff-off at the latter end of last summer’s window over Cesar Azpilicueta. The veteran Spanish defender has seen game time come in periodic phases and could depart Stamford Bridge in the summer.
Barcelona are certainly in the mix once more for the veteran Spanish star, with the likelihood of signing him on the cheap or free enticing them. Their financial troubles have forced the Catalans into a market full of quality stars who have a knocked-down price tag.
They remain interested in several players, including Ilkay Gundogan from Manchester City. However, they also watched out for other stars, potentially nearing free agency. Barcelona chiefs Jordi Cruyff and Mateu Alemany were reportedly present at the Santiago Bernabeu, hoping to get a glimpse of three Chelsea stars.
Those are reportedly N’Golo Kante, Azpilicueta and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The trio could become available for transfers in the summer, with only the Frenchman having a chance to continue his stay at Stamford Bridge.
Kante continues to ponder a decision on his future, with reports suggesting he can sign a new deal at Chelsea. If that does not work out, Barcelona will keep their doors open for the Frenchman, who still has plenty to offer to the game.
As for Aubameyang, the forward has been horrendous since the start of the season. After spending six months since the start of 2022 with Barcelona, the Blaugrana could not refuse an important economic offer from Chelsea. They could make a move in the summer if they can.
Since joining the Blues, the Gabonese has been marginalised and was even taken out of their Champions League squad. Hence, the report claiming Barcelona chiefs were here to watch him may have been inaccurate. The Catalan giants explored returning for him in January, but FIFA rules may have prevented a transfer.
For now, Barcelona will evaluate their financial situation and possibly look to regulate it before making any moves in the market. The trio would add quality to their impressive squad, and moves could become a possibility if the conditions are right.
