CESAR AZPILICUETA has emerged as new Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde’s top defensive target.
According to reports in Spain, the Chelsea defender will be the man they want to strengthen the back line.
Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin is also being tipped as a possible name for the Nou Camp, according to Sport.es.
The 27-year-old emerged as Mr Reliable for Antonio Conte this season, seamlessly adapting to the Italian’s 3-4-3 formation.
And with 47 appearances under his belt for the Blues, he has proven himself as one of the unsung heroes of Chelsea’s title charge, playing every minute of every league game.
Azpilicueta was signed from Marseille for just £5.4million in 2012 and has won two Premier League titles and the Europa League with the club.
Barcelona have already reached out to Chelsea for talks over the defender, with technical secretary Robert Fernandez getting stuck into negotiations with the Blues hierarchy.
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Manchester City are also rumoured to be interested in the Spaniard, but the West London club are reluctant to sell to a Prem rival.
Barcelona are understood to be attracted to his adaptability, working both as a centre-back and right back.
Azpilicueta has 18 appearances for his country and played in the 2-2 draw with England back in November.
Dissapointed with today's result but proud of being part of this club and this amazing season! Next season we'll go for more. Thanks!
#cfc pic.twitter.com/FaprH96GjT
— César Azpilicueta (@CesarAzpi) May 27, 2017
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