Report: Player had agreement with Granovskaia to leave Chelsea this summer, but new owners could change that

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Cesar Azpilicueta reportedly made a pact with Marina Granovskaia about departing Chelsea before the process of uncovering a new owner began.

According to AS, Azpilicueta had reached an agreement with the club’s director that if he desired to bid farewell to the Blues, he would be allowed to do so.

That was until Roman Abramovich decided to put his empire up for sale, only to be subsequently sanctioned by the UK government.

Now, all transfer decisions will be down to the Russian’s successor, meaning Azpilicueta and Granovskaia’s agreement is pushed on to the next person in charge.

Spanish saga

Chelsea have already taken strides to keep hold of their skipper for another season, by extending his contract unilaterally until 2023.

The Spain international had been nearing the end of his deal, but his employers took the decision partly out of his hands.

He could still bid farewell to Chelsea after a decade of concrete service this summer, with Barcelona seriously sniffing around Stamford Bridge.

However, Abramovich’s replacement might rip up the treaty Azpilicueta made with Granovskaia and give him no choice but to remain for at least one more campaign.

Azpi the true professional

Azpilicueta apparently does not want to force a move out of South West London, no matter the circumstances surrounding the situation.

Supporters wouldn’t expect anything else from the defender who has literally won it all as Chelsea’s captain.

If he is to go, it will be without fuss or argument, yet certainly not short of an emotional goodbye.

‘Dave’ has served the European champions impeccably since his arrival from Marseille in 2012.

The 32-year-old has played over 300 games, lifted numerous titles and covered almost as many positions.

His legs might be tiring slightly, but Azpilicueta’s commitment will never be questioned.

Whilst we don’t want the journey to finish just yet, we know all good things must come to end eventually.

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