Barça's pursuit of Azpilicueta in trouble with the renewed possibility of Koundé's arrival
The possible arrival of Jules Koundé at Barça could create a roadblock in their negotiations for the Navarre defender, since if they miss out on the French centre-back, Chelsea could shut shop on the transfer of the player from Zizur Mayor
César Azpilicueta is one of FC Barcelona's big targets in the transfer market ahead of the 2022/23 season. The Spanish club have long been negotiating for the Navarrese full-back, but his team from London would not allow his departure. The player is very clear that he wants to move to FC Barcelona, but his future will depend on Chelsea, who are now battling with the very same club to sign Jules Koundé as Azpilicueta's replacement.
Should the French centre-back eventually sign for Barça, Chelsea would likely cut off the negotiations for Azpilicueta. The arrival of Jules to Xavi Hernandez's project would thus prevent the Spanish full-back from leaving Stamford Bridge for Barcelona, leaving the desires of both César and Xavi himself to end in frustration. The Koundé negotiations have reached full gallop in recent hours with the offensive launched by Mateu Alemany and Jordi Cruyff.
This situation does not please Xavi; the priority of the Barça coach is Koundé, but he deeply values Azpilicueta too. It is worth mentioning that Barça only have one pure right-back in their squad, Sergiño Dest. There is always the option of Sergi Roberto, but the coaching staff would welcome the arrival of a solid reinforcement for the position.
