Reports | Barcelona and Atletico Madrid to battle it out for Cesar Azpilicueta next summer

Despite making well over 400 appearances for Chelsea, Cesar Azpilicueta’s future at the club is far from secure with the 32-year-old entering the final few months of his current deal at the Blues. The Spaniard is one of several defenders alongside Antonio Rudiger, Thiago Silva and Andreas Christensen who are out of contract at the end of the season which leaves Chelsea with a big problem.

But Sport has reported that the Blues have an even bigger issue as both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are looking into a move for the 32-year-old defender. The report has indicated that both sides are looking at defensive reinforcements and believe that Azpilicueta’s experience combined with his defensive talent would be the perfect addition. However, while Atletico are also looking at other options, Barcelona are considering the cut-price deals thanks to their financial situation.

Furthermore, Sport has reported that the Camp Nou side are the front-runners in the battle as new manager Xavi Hernandez is a big fan of the Chelsea defender. Things could get worse for Chelsea as well with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen also linked with a move away although Thiago Silva is reportedly keen on extending his stay at Stamford Bridge.