Barcelona are planning to raid Stamford Bridge for Chelsea pair Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen as the Blaugrana look to revamp their defence on a budget.
The pair will form part of a wider plan from Xavi and co. to add four out of contract defenders to their side this summer, with Ajax fullback Noussair Mazraoui and Valencia left-back Jose Gaya also free to move on this summer.
Danish centre-back Christensen is a key part of the Blues defence under Thomas Tuchel, having made 14 Premier League appearances for the London side this season before suffering an injury.
However, Barcelona are thought to be ready to offer the 25 year old centre-back a five year deal to become the lynchpin of the Catalan side’s defence.
Barcelona contract proposal for Andreas Christensen has been improved in the last 48 hours: five year deal on the table, Xavi’s pushing to sign Christensen as key player for his ideas. ?? #FCB
Bayern are still trying but Barça are now more than confident. BVB, not an option. pic.twitter.com/lDa9t7pB8o
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 2, 2022
Azpi to follow?
It seems certain that Christensen will leave the club this summer, and Cesar Azpilicueta seems likely to follow, with Barcelona also having made a move for the veteran Spaniard in an attempt to lure him back to Spain.
Barcelona have confirmed to César Azpilicueta they are prepared to wait for his final decision between Chelsea and FCB. Barça are now confident – but it’s about life, family and more. ?? #FCB
Barcelona bid on the table: contract until June 2024 plus option for further season. pic.twitter.com/IelAWzYYXw
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 1, 2022
The ball seems to be in the player’s court now, with a decision likely to be made shortly. Were Barcelona to add another four free agents to the four that have arrived in the last 8 months, it would represent quite the rebuild for the cash-strapped side.
