Barcelona was interested in signing Cesar Azpilicueta on a free transfer during the summer, which led to a protracted transfer saga. However, under the new leadership of Todd Boehly, the Spanish veteran ultimately decided to extend his contract with Chelsea for an additional two years.
Azpilicueta has a new contract, but he is gradually slipping in the Blues’ hierarchy. Out of a possible 14, he has participated in 11 games, starting only seven.
As a result, Real Madrid reportedly wants to sign Azpi in the winter and is prepared to pay close to €10 million for his services, according to a report by SPORT.
There are currently two right-backs on Madrid’s roster in the form of Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez. They recognize Azpilicueta’s versatility, however, as the Chelsea captain can also play central defense.
Furthermore, Vazquez would be able to play in his natural position on the right wing much more frequently than he does now thanks to that.
Given the potential injury issues with Reece James, it appears unlikely that Chelsea will allow Azpilicueta to leave in the offseason. The Englishman has had fitness issues for the past two seasons and will also be absent from the World Cup.
Additionally, there have been rumors that Madrid will not add any players in the winter transfer window, and Carlo Ancelotti essentially confirmed this during a press conference prior to last week’s game.
The plan, he explained, was to avoid moving during the winter market.
Given Karim Benzema’s recent injury concerns, Los Blancos would probably prioritize signing a striker in January even if they were to take a market dive.
