Chelsea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta’s priority is to remain at Stamford Bridge despite the transfer interest from Barcelona, according to reports.
The Spaniard’s current contract is due to expire at the end of the campaign, meaning he is free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign teams from January 1.
Azpilicueta’s contract situation has caught the attention of Barcelona, with new manager Xavi reported to be keen on bringing the experienced defender to Camp Nou.
But, according to The Athletic, Azpilicueta wants to stick around at the London club and compete for his place in Thomas Tuchel’s side.
The 32-year-old defender has been left on the bench several times this season, with plenty of options for the German coach in defence and at wing-back.
Although Azpilicueta is yet to sign a new contract, a Chelsea insider told The Athletic that interest from Barcelona has only reduced his chances of staying from 99 per cent to 90 per cent.
‘I don’t see any problem here,’ said Tuchel on his captain’s future last week.
‘The situation between Azpi, me and the club is very clear. He is our captain. He has all possibilities to stay here as long as possible and become the legend he already is. He is a fantastic captain and a fantastic player.’
‘If there are some weeks where he does not play so much, like in the last weeks, there are some reasons,’ added Tuchel. ‘First of all, he was injured in his shoulder.
‘Second of all, the team played very strong in his positions with Trevoh [Chalobah] and Andreas [Christensen], and at wing-back with Reecey [James].
‘That’s how it is. If there is any player who knows it is like this, it’s Azpi. He is very calm. He has everything in his own hands. I see no signs we should be worried about it.’
