Cesar Azpilicueta signs new two-year deal with Chelsea to end Barcelona speculation - reports

Cesar Azpilicueta has signed a new two-year contract with Chelsea, according to reports. The Spaniard had his most recent contract extended this summer by an extra 12 months to prevent him leaving on a free transfer, but he was still linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.

Ad/> He was believed to be a target for Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez as he continues his rebuild in Catalonia. TransfersKounde nears Barcelona move but Alonso and Azpilicueta talks blocked by Chelsea — reports25/07/2022 AT 14:08 Reports suggested that Chelsea were reluctant to do business with Barcelona after they were the side to sign central defender Jules Kounde from Sevilla, and he will now almost certainly stay with Thomas Tuchel’s side.

The Athletic reports that Chelsea were keen to keep the player after showing strong leadership qualities of the 32-year-old during the time they were operating under sanctions last season. /> Under Roman Abramovich’s ownership it was rare for a player over 30 to be offered new deals longer than 12 months.

Transfer news — LIVE Hickey, Kamara and Southampton's rebuild — The under-the-radar signings we love Azpilicueta is 24 games short of playing 500 games for Chelsea. Premier LeagueFriendly fire from Tuchel, but elsewhere Grealish and Haaland are cooking – The Warm-Up25/07/2022 AT 07:14 TransfersChelsea pip Barca to Kounde signing by sending duo to Camp Nou – Paper Round19/07/2022 AT 22:14