‘Really close’: Romano says 31-year-old is now on the verge of leaving Chelsea, just waiting for Tuchel approval

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Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Marcos Alonso is close to a deal to join Barcelona this summer.

The 31-year-old has been linked throughout the window with a move away from Stamford Bridge, with the Catalan side being touted as his next suitors.

However, Barcelona’s hijacking of moves for Jules Kounde and Raphinha seemed to anger the Blues, who looked set to block future moves from Xavi’s side for Alonso and club captain Cesar Azpilicueta.

The latter is now confirmed to stay at the club, after extending his contract by another two years yesterday.

However, they are now confident in their ability to sign the left-back, with Romano claiming the deal is only awaiting Thomas Tuchel’s approval.

Alonso close to leaving Chelsea

He said: “Barcelona are really close to signing Marcos Alonso! Talks are progressing well with Chelsea after Cucurella deal completed, personal terms agreed months ago. Been told it’s now really close. 

“Parties waiting for Tuchel’s green light but now finally confident.”

Barcelona will have been given an added confidence that they can pull the deal off following Chelsea getting close to announcing a deal to sign Marc Cucurella from Brighton.

The Spain international is expected to be announced today as a new Blue, with him being able to offer cover for Ben Chilwell as well as feature as part of the back three.

The rumoured price tag for Cucurella may catch the eye of some, however when it becomes clear that Levi Colwill will not be leaving on a permanent basis the other way, the extra money spent will be worth it to see him get Premier League gametime for the next season.

Alonso has been a sensational servant for the club, with his attacking abilities outweighing his defensive shortcomings. However, the choice of Chilwell or Cucurella puts the Blues in a great position for the next few years on the left.