Barcelona still in talks with Chelsea over 32-year-old defender

Barcelona have had a hugely successful transfer window which is set to get even better with the imminent acquisition of Jules Kounde from Sevilla.

The Blaugrana have managed to stave off fierce competition from Chelsea for the signing of the Frenchman, in the process getting the better of the Premier League giants for the second time this summer.

While Kounde’s impending arrival is a major coup, it is likely to have repercussions on Barça’s pursuit of their top right-back target Cesar Azpilicueta.

The 32-year-old has been identified as the primary target to reinforce the right-back slot at Camp Nou following Dani Alves’ departure. While he may be entering the twilight of his career, the Chelsea ace can still be a solid short-term signing for the Catalans.

However, according to reports on Monday, Chelsea are angry with the Blaugrana following the outcome of the Kounde transfer saga and are ready to block their captain from joining the La Liga giants this summer.

However, a fresh update from COPE journalist Helena Condis claims that Azpilicueta still has hopes of joining Barcelona before the transfer window slams shut despite the friction between the two clubs.

The report also claims that Barça and Chelsea still remain locked in negotiations over the transfer of the Spaniard, contrary to speculations.

Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel had also sent out a statement hinting that he might block Azpilicueta’s transfer to Camp Nou. But, Helena Condis believes that it is a part of the Blues’ negotiation tactics to get their desired price for the 32-year-old Spaniard.

Azpilicueta is in the final year of his contract with Chelsea and has his heart set on a return to Spain. He is understood to have already agreed personal terms with Barça, but whether the negotiations between the two clubs lead to the desired outcome remains to be seen.