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Top Barcelona target set for new contract renewal at Chelsea

Cesar Azpilicueta, Reece James - Chelsea
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The Blues will tie down their captain to a new deal ahead of the new season.

Cesar Azpilicueta will reportedly sign a new deal at Chelsea despite serious interest from Barcelona.

Having secured a free move for Andreas Christensen earlier this summer, the Catalans hoped to sign Azpilicueta alongside Marcos Alonso in the remainder of the current transfer window.

However, the Blues have stepped up to block their captain’s exit by convincing him to sign a contract renewal.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Azpilicueta has decided to continue his career at Chelsea ahead of the new season.

The Sky Sports journalist claims the new deal will run until 2024. Thomas Tuchel has reportedly pushed to keep Azpilicueta at Stamford Bridge, despite the Blues being initially open to selling the Spaniard.

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Azpilicueta’s decision will guarantee Sergino Dest’s place in Barcelona’s squad for the next season. The USMNT right-back has attracted interest from several clubs, but he is keen to find his place in Xavi’s lineup.

According to Goal, Barcelona were hoping to include first-team players in their bid for Azpilicueta. But new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has ruled out a move for the experienced defender.

Chelsea will start their new Premier League campaign this weekend while spending a busy transfer window.

Having signed Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Gabriel Slonina, the Blues will lock horns with Everton in their Premier League opener on Saturday.

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