In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano mentioned that Barcelona are ready to move in for Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta this summer. It has been claimed that the Catalan giants are preparing to launch a bid for the Spanish full-back during this summer transfer window.
Barcelona are preparing their official proposal for César Azpilicueta. Up to Chelsea soon, as they will complete new signings and then decide on the Spanish fullback. 🚨🇪🇸 #CFC
Barcelona have an agreement on personal terms with Apzi since months ago: 2 year deal with option.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2022
Azpilicueta’s Impressive Form At Stamford Bridge Last Season
Azpilicueta had another solid campaign with the Blues in the Premier League as he was responsible for putting in several impressive displays for them down the right flank. However, his influence has somewhat diminished at Chelsea over the past 11 months. The Pamplona-born talent featured in 47 matches for the West London club last season, registering three goals and three assists in the process across all fronts.
The 32-year-old deserves a lot of credit for averaging 1.9 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 2.3 clearances and 0.6 key passes per game in Premier League football. He was even tidy when distributing the ball from inside his half after making 85.7% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Is Azpilicueta A Good Choice For Barcelona Boss Xavi?
Azpilicueta works his socks off to offer decent protection for his teammates at the back. He is a solid tackler of the ball and can make a few timely interceptions for his side on the defensive third of the pitch. Azpilicueta is primarily a right-back but can even fill in as a left-back or assume the duties of a central defender if required.
The Spaniard doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when needed and can even set up some meaningful chances for others around him in the opposition half.
At 32, Azpilicueta will be a short-term solution to Xavi‘s right-back problems. However, he will undeniably be an upgrade over Dani Alves at the Nou Camp and could help the Catalan club compete for multiple trophies in the coming seasons.
Hence, Barca should consider making a move for Azpilicueta, who has just got a year left to run in his Chelsea contract. With all things considered, the Spanish talent would be a good, short-term choice for the Catalan giants to pursue before the end of this transfer window.
