Barcelona is keeping a close watch on Chelsea duo Azpilicueta and Christensen as their contract expires this summer. Due to the sanctions imposed on the owner of Chelsea Abramovich, the London Club is unable to extend the contracts of these players.
Azpilicueta who joined Chelsea in August 2012 and has won 9 trophies including the Champions League and the FIFA club world Cup, after a successful 10 years at Chelsea, Spanish international is set to leave Chelsea on a free transfer.
Christensen signed for Chelsea on a free transfer on 7 February. Upon joining the London side, Christensen said: “I have chosen Chelsea because they play the kind of football I like.”It is also likely the 25 years old defender could follow suit.
According to rumors, Barcelona may release eight players as they close in on Chelsea’s Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen.
According to AS, Barca could see Neto, Clement Lenglet, Samuel Umtiti, Oscar Mingueza, Riqui Puig, Martin Braithwaite, Luuk de Jong, and Sergi Roberto as they seek to strengthen their squad for next season.
Barcelona is negotiating to re-sign Roberto, but negotiations have stopped, leaving the defender’s future at the Nou Camp in doubt.
Barcelona’s Manager Xavi is aiming to bolster his squad during the summer, and it appears that his focus on free agents will return.
The Catalan giants have improved their season after adding Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, whose contract with Arsenal was terminated in January.
Aubameyang has found a fresh lease of life in Catalonia, scoring seven goals in as many league appearances.
Since Chelsea cannot renew the contract of the defenders because of the sanctions, Barca is likely to add this player to their squad next season
The Blaugranas are close to announcing the signing of Milan midfielder Frank Kessie as Kessie has reportedly completed his medicals.