BARCELONA are interested in signing Chelsea pair Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen, according to reports.
The two defenders could be available on free transfers next summer with their contracts due to expire at the end of the season.
And since Barcelona are embroiled in financial turmoil, their only realistic chance at signing players could be to explore the free-agent market, according to Fichajes.
Azpilicueta, 32, is Chelsea captain and still a key part of Thomas Tuchel’s plans, whether he plays in central defence or as a wing-back to cover the injured Reece James.
Likewise, Christensen, 25, has an important role to play for Blues and the club could be keen to hold onto him given Antonio Rudiger’s uncertain future.
In fact, Chelsea are planning to offer the Dane a new long-term contract.
And Christensen is reportedly willing to stay with the club ready to match his desired salary of £120,000 a week.
Thiago Silva is another defender whose contract expires in the summer so it could be difficult for Barcelona to prise away Azpilicueta.
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Chelsea made no secret of their desire to strengthen the defence over the last summer transfer window but failed to land top target Jules Kounde of Sevilla.
The Blues had previously been linked with a move for Bayern Munich defender Niklas Sule.
So even if stars like Rudiger and Azpilicueta were to leave, it seems the Chelsea hierarchy would be ready to bring in replacements.
Tuchel has also handed several starting opportunities to young defender Trevoh Chalobah this season, and he has impressed so far.
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