Barcelona close to signing Chelsea star as first transfer of 2022/23

While the summer transfer window may still be some way away, Barcelona are already making progress in their efforts to secure their targets.

The Blaugrana are keen on bringing in a new marquee striker, with Erling Haaland a top target. At the same time, manager Xavi Hernandez also has his sights set on revamping his defensive options.

One position where a new addition is of urgent need is the right-back slot. Dani Alves has done well since returning but will be out of contract at the end of the season. Sergino Dest, meanwhile, is believed to be on the chopping block, with Barça ready to sell him.

It would leave the Catalans in search of a new right-sided full-back, and they have identified their main target in the form of Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta. The veteran Spaniard is in the final few months of his contract and will become a free agent in the summer.

And, as per SPORT, everything is in place for Azpilicueta to become Barcelona’s first signing ahead of the 2022/23 season.

According to the report, the La Liga bigwigs have already presented the versatile defender with a two-year contract offer with an option of an additional twelve months.

Chelsea are believed to have the unilateral option of extending his contract by another year at Stamford Bridge. But the report states that given his services to the club, the Blues are willing to let him decide his future, with the Spanish international set to meet director Marina Granovskaia soon.

And, as things stand, the 32-year-old seems set on his way to Barcelona, as he is believed to be keen on returning to Spain. While he might not be a long-term solution, Azpilicueta would add a lot of value to this team with his experience and leadership skills.