BARCELONA are still set on signing Cesar Azpilicueta despite their pursuit of Jules Kounde, according to reports in Spain.
Barca’s LaLiga rivals Atletico Madrid are also keeping a close eye on developments with want-away Chelsea star Azpilicueta, according to AS.
Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta’s expected move to Barcelona is still up in the air Credit: Jamie McPhilimey
Chelsea and Barcelona both want Sevilla’s Jules Kounde Credit: Getty A summer move to the Nou Camp for the Blues skipper has long been in the offing.
But the Catalans’ interest in Sevilla’s similarly versatile defender Jules Kounde has raised questions over whether they will need Azpilicueta too.
Increasingly strained relations between Barca and the Blues following their tug-of-war over Raphinha and Kounde in this window have also put a deal for the 32-year-old in doubt.
So Barca boss Xavi has reassured the Spain star they still fully intend to sign him, according to AS.
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Kimpembe lined up as Blues fail with Kounde deal Their report says: “Xavi has promised the international that he is not going to let him down and that the Kounde operation is independent of his.
“What’s more, he ratified the agreement he has with Barcelona and asked for a little patience to calm the waters with Chelsea.”
Apparently, Diego Simeone’s Atleti are monitoring the situation and ready to move for Azpilicueta if it fits into their own summer transfer merry-go-round.
AS say Atleti’s interest will be dependent on their attempts to sign other stars including Udinese right-back Nahuel Molina.
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Their report explains: “[Azpilicueta’s] versatility and experience make him a guaranteed signing for Simeone.
“But we will still have to wait to see how the market progresses for the Rojiblancos.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
