Barcelona could reportedly make another move for Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta in the summer.
According to SPORT, the Spanish side will see how Azpilicueta’s situation unfolds at the end of the season before they attempt to sign him again.
Xavi and his employers tried to land the defender in the previous warm weather window, yet failed to prize him from Stamford Bridge.
The 33-year-old even spoke to the Barca boss personally, laying down his ambitions to remain at Chelsea for a little while longer.
But that was nearly six months ago, and the landscape for the experience skipper has changed again.
Azpilicueta’s employers are apparently in the market for a new right-back, with Lyon’s Malo Gusto heavily mentioned as the primary target to provide cover for Reece James.
Denzel Dumfries is also being linked with a transfer to Cobham, another who would help out James, who is still recovering from his latest injury layoff.
Cesar Azpilicueta could be at the end of his Chelsea career
Should Gusto or Dumfries, or both, head to South West London, Azpilicueta would tumble down the pecking order further.
He is already in danger of departing Chelsea, even without the added challenge of competing with new signings.
His contract expires in 2024, one that may well not be renewed at the end of the current campaign.
If this is the case, and fresh full-backs do arrive, then Azpilicueta might have no choice be to head for the exit door.
Barca seem to be willing to house the Spain international should he leave the club he joined in 2012 for £7m and has since made 500 appearances for.
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