Chelsea has reportedly set their stance on Cesar Azpilicueta’s future at the club and is demanding €8 million from Barcelona for his services this summer.
The Spanish international will become a free agent this summer.
But Chelsea triggered a one-year extension clause, and now his will end at Stamford Bridge until 2023.
As a result, Barcelona will force to pay a sum to acquire him this summer rather than sign him for free.
Xavi has identified multiple transfer targets this window as he looks to challenge Real Madrid for the Spanish top-flight title once again.
The Blaugrana have already added Andreas Christensen and Franck Kessie on free transfers from Chelsea and Milan.
At the same time, Leeds United star Raphinha is also expecting to join the club.
Bayern Munich forwards Robert Lewandowski and Sevilla defender Jules Kounde remain high on Barca’s priority list, with the Spanish giants hoping to sign them both this summer.
Despite finding themselves in debt worth over €1 billion, according to reports,
Barcelona remains optimistic about their chances of adding more signings this summer, with Azpilicueta another one.
They are also keen on signing Azpilicueta’s Chelsea team-mate, Marcos Alonso,
Azpilicueta remains a key target, with Barcelona hoping to add the Spaniard following Dani Alves’ departure this summer.
The defender did travel to the United States on Chelsea’s pre-season tour.
But he is still open to the idea of joining Barcelona.
According to Goal, Chelsea has set their asking price at €8m, which Barcelona will need to reach if they harbour any hopes of signing the 33-year-old this summer.
That fee is the amount Chelsea paid Marseille to sign Azpilicueta in 2012.
Chelsea’s transfer business
Chelsea is still in the hunt to sign Juventus defender Matthijs de Ligt.
Although Bayern Munich is now leading the race, the player desires to join the Bavarian outfit.
Nathan Ake remains a crucial target, while Jules Kounde’s talks have quietened.
Raheem Sterling is expecting to join as a Chelsea player very soon.
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