Azpilicueta's move to Barcelona delayed as Chelsea freeze his release

Chelsea is getting tough on César Azpilicueta despite the fact that he is almost given up for loss due to the right-back's insistence to sign for Barça. The English club is still negotiating the terms of his departure to the Spanish club but has already warned the player that he will not be released from his existing contract until the London-based team can find a suitable replacement for him in the market. According to the 'Daily Mail', it is possible the search can go for on a long time.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel wants a right-back who can also play as a centre-back, and at an affordable price, and so far they have not signed anyone who fits the role. Azpilicueta and Barça are in a hurry with the preseason tour coming up but will have no option but to wait.

The owner of the English club was in Barcelona last week to discuss various market issues and opened the door to both Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso so they could sign for Barcelona. Both players are open to transfer for the right price, although he warned that he had to talk to the sports club's officials in order to confirm the operation. Tuchel's directives have been clear, and while it seems that Marcos Alonso would have free rein since the team has alternatives for him in their squad, Azpilicueta however will have to remain until the ideal replacement arrives.

Barcelona though is confident of being able to get the two players for a price of fewer than 10 million euros each. That, or to sign an exchange deal for one or both of them with Memphis, a player who is on the table for transfer, but who does not yet have the interest of Tuchel.