Barcelona planning to sign Chelsea trio in the summer – report

After reports claimed that Barcelona were eyeing Bosman deals for Chelsea duo Cesar Azpilicueta and Andreas Christensen, it seems that the Catalans have added another Blues’ star to their shopping list for the summer.

According to transfer expert Dean Jones, the Blaugrana have also set their sights on a free transfer swoop for Azpilicueta and Christensen’s defensive partner, Antonio Rudiger.

A major defensive overhaul is expected at Camp Nou next season with Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet likely to be offloaded, while Gerard Pique is believed to be contemplating the possibility of retirement.

Such a situation would leave Xavi Hernandez with Ronald Araujo, Eric Garcia and Oscar Mingueza as the only options, with the latter two not convincing on a consistent basis. So, at least two centre-backs are likely to come into the fold in the summer.

A move for Cesar Azpilicueta is already believed to be finalised. The 32-year-old would add a lot of value to the side with his experience and versatility and could succeed Dani Alves at right-back, at least for a short time.

Christensen’s deal is also understood to be in advanced stages. The Dane is a quality defender who would fit in well with the style of play at Camp Nou. At 25, he has his best years ahead of him, which would make him a shrewd long-term signing.

As for Rudiger, the German international’s contract is set to run out just the like two Chelsea stars mentioned above. He has reportedly rejected the European champions’ latest proposal for an extension, leaving the door open for an exit.

Barcelona want to pounce on that opportunity, which would be understandable considering he is widely regarded as one of the most in-form defenders in the game currently. However, his wage demands could throw a spanner in the works for the Blaugrana.

But it Mateu Alemany & co. manage to pull off a triple-raid, it would be a huge coup for the Catalan giants.