Cesar Azpilicueta has emerged as a potential 2022 transfer target for Barcelona. Azpilicueta, one of several Chelsea players whose contracts expire at the end of the season, could join Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, and Thiago Silva in leaving Stamford Bridge.
Barcelona, on the other hand, has a limited number of transfer prospects due to their crippling financial situation as Xavi attempts to rebuild the side.
There are several reasons why Barcelona is interested in Azpilicueta – and, more importantly, evidence that a deal is possible.
Azpilicueta’s Status As A free Agent
The fact that Azpilicueta is a free agent is perhaps the most obvious reason why he could be heading to Camp Nou.
Barcelona is unlikely to be able to pay a fee for any player next summer, so they will be restricted to players whose contracts are coming to an end.
Azpilicueta fits neatly into this category and is good enough to play for the club.
Furthermore, he does not qualify as a high-priced superstar. Indeed, he is one of Chelsea’s lower-paid players, which is another appealing feature for Barcelona.
Capability to play in a three-man defense
Xavi employed a 3-4-3 formation with Al-Sadd, whereas Azpilicueta played on the right of a defensive three for Chelsea under Thomas Tuchel.
In La Liga, where aerial play is less crucial than in England, he might be more successful.
Azpilicueta could thus fit in nicely with Xavi’s plans.
Experience
Gerard Pique‘s star is beginning to fade, and he may be dropped from the starting XI next season. Although Dani Alves is expected to join the squad, the veteran Brazilian is also unlikely to be a regular.
Azpilicueta, 32, might be an old head in a defense with Eric Garcia, Ronald Araujo, and Oscar Mingueza.
