Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta is reportedly increasingly likely to leave the club when his contract expires this summer, with Barcelona leading the race.

Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta is reportedly increasingly likely to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of this season.

The 32-year-old has been a Stamford Bridge stalwart since joining in 2012, making at least 40 appearances in all competitions in each of his nine full seasons at the club so far.

However, he has fallen down the pecking order so far this term, starting just two of Chelsea's last eight Premier League games under Thomas Tuchel.

Azpilicueta's contract in West London expires next summer, meaning that he is free to discuss terms with overseas clubs from January 1.

The Spain international is understood to want to stay at Chelsea, but negotiations have stalled due to a disagreement over the length of the contract on offer.

ESPN reports that a number of Azpilicueta's teammates are now resigned to him leaving the club, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid thought to be leading the race for his signature.

Chelsea also face contract dilemmas with Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, both of whom would also be available on free transfers at the end of this season as things stand.

Azpilicueta has made 446 appearances for Chelsea across all competitions, helping them to win every trophy available to them in English and continental football. body check tags ::

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