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CHEERIO CHELSEA?

Barcelona open talks to sign Chelsea full-back Cesar Azpilicueta as Ernesto Valverde eyes defensive overhaul

Premier League-winning defender was Mr Reliable for Antonio Conte at Stamford Bridge this season

Cesar Azpilicueta has emerged as new Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde’s top defensive target.

According to reports in Spain, the Chelsea defender will be the man they want to strengthen the back line.

Cesar Azpilicueta did not miss a minute of Premier League football this season

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Cesar Azpilicueta did not miss a minute of Premier League football this season

Arsenal’s Hector Bellerin is also being tipped as a possible name for the Nou Camp, according to Sport.es.

The 27-year-old emerged as Mr Reliable for Antonio Conte this season, seamlessly adapting to the Italian’s 3-4-3 formation.

Cesar Azpilicueta has been Mr Reliable for Antonio Conte this season and has caught the eye of Barcelona

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Cesar Azpilicueta has been Mr Reliable for Antonio Conte this season and has caught the eye of Barcelona

And with 47 appearances under his belt for the Blues, he has proven himself as one of the unsung heroes of Chelsea’s title charge, playing every minute of every league game.

Azpilicueta was signed from Marseille for just £5.4million in 2012 and has won two Premier League titles and the Europa League with the club.

Barcelona have already reached out to Chelsea for talks over the defender, with technical secretary Robert Fernandez getting stuck into negotiations with the Blues hierarchy.

Cesar Azpilicueta was on the losing side as Arsenal beat Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley

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Cesar Azpilicueta was on the losing side as Arsenal beat Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley

Manchester City are also rumoured to be interested in the Spaniard, but the West London club are reluctant to sell to a Prem rival.

Barcelona are understood to be attracted to his adaptability, working both as a centre-back and right back.

Azpilicueta has 18 appearances for his country and played in the 2-2 draw with England back in November.