Barcelona's pursuit of Chelsea's Azpilicueta reaches the final straight

Barcelona's pursuit of Chelsea's Azpilicueta reaches the final straight

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The defender's contract situation at Chelsea is more complicated than it seemed

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has already commented that two players have been signed ahead of the summer window. They are defender Andreas Christensen (Chelsea) and midfielder Franck Kessié (Milan).

The third player Barça want to sign is Chelsea's versatile defender César Azpilicueta and there's a conviction that he wants to join the club in July.

Azpilicueta has a clause in his deal that allows Chelsea to renew his contract, which expires this summer, but he's convinced they will let him go because of the situation the club is in and due to his professionalism during a decade at Stamford Bridge.

In that case, Barça already have an agreement in principle with the Spain international to sign him on a free transfer.

The former Osasuna man has been clear he would like to join Barça. The financial and sporting offer has convinced him and he would like things solved as soon as possible.

He has a great relationship with the London club, whose current owner, Roman Abramovich, has been sanctioned in England, forcing Chelsea to freeze their assets as a new buyer is sought.

Azpilicueta plans to talk with the club as soon as possible over his future but it's difficult with no clear leadership at the moment.

Barça coach Xavi is a big fan of Azpilicueta. He has a lotof top level experience and is still in good shape despite his age. His versatility at the back is especially valued.

In principle, Barça plan to renew Dani Alves and the most likely scenario is Sergiño Dest is made available for a transfer if a good offer arrives.

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