Barcelona shocked as transfer target rejects move and signs new contract

Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta has made a shock decision to reject a move to Barcelona and sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

The 32-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Camp Nou throughout the summer, but has now committed his future with Thomas Tuchel’s side. 

According to The Athletic, Spaniard Azpilicueta has signed a new two year contract, keeping the full back at the club until June 2024. 

The defender’s contract was due to expire this summer, but was extended after a performance related clause was activated. 

Azpilicueta’s decision to extend his stay with the club will be welcomed by Tuchel as he looks to rebuild his Chelsea defence after losing the likes of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger, the pair left after their contract expired at the end of the 21/22 season. 

The Blues have since completed the signing of Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli as a much needed defensive reinforcement. They are also set to bring in Brighton left back Marc Cucurella, with discussions well underway regarding a potential transfer.

It has been reported that owner Todd Boehly has been keen to keep Azpilicueta at the club since he took over from Roman Abramovich. Another reason behind Azpilicueta putting pen to paper is the fact that his family are more than settled in England. 

Since joining the club from Marseille in 2012, Azpilicueta has made 476 appearances across all competitions, chipping in with 17 goals. 

During his time at the Bridge, he has got his hands on two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup, two Europa Leagues and one Champions League. 

He has also been capped by Spain 40 times. 

Barcelona will now have to turn their attentions elsewhere as they look to add to their ranks. The Catalan club have been busy this summer after signing Andreas Christensen, Franck Kessie, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha and Jules Kounde amid financial troubles. 

The La Liga side remain desperate in their attempts to offload midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Manchester United have now been reportedly joined by Chelsea in the race for the Dutchman’s signature. However, the 25-year-old’s main priority hasn’t changed, he sees his future at the Camp Nou and is not thinking about leaving at the moment.