According to a report from London Evening Standard, Chelsea full-back Cesar Azpilicueta has been linked with a move to Barcelona amid Arsenal’s firm stance on not selling Hector Bellerin to the Catalan giants.
Following Dani Alves’ departure from Camp Nou, Luis Enrique is keen to bring an established full-back, who is equally adept at defending as well as going forward. The 26-year old plays as a left-back at Chelsea, but he prefers to play from the right-hand side.
Azpilicueta could even trump Juanfran and Bellerin for the right-back role for Spain at Euro 2016 further proving his worth at that position when Barcelona come calling.
The fact that Azpilicueta has proved himself as one of the best defenders in Premier League, he will have little trouble in adjusting to life at Camp Nou.
In Numbers – Azpilicueta vs Alves
Defensive numbers for Alves were always bound to be on the lower side as Barcelona end up dominating the play for most parts of the matches in La Liga. As for Azpilicueta, his defensive work rate can be seen from the high number of interceptions, tackles and clearances made by him last season.
Azpilicueta’s playing style
The Spanish International is known for his attacking style of play where at times, he acted as Chelsea’s greatest attacking threat following a miserable season for Eden Hazard. In terms of tracking back, Chelsea star is known for his pace and ability to pull off last-ditched tackles.
His tenaciousness and physical ability makes him an ideal defender for any top side in Europe. The only area he lacks in, is his aerial ability where he often comes as second best against the taller opponents.
A good fit for Barcelona?
Given his sharp defensive ability and attacking intelligence, Cesar Azpilicueta would be an ideal signing for Barcelona to be signed as a replacement for the departing Dani Alves.
He is technically sound and as for his lack of aerial ability, La Liga is not as physical as Premier League, which would allow the Chelsea star to settle in at Camp Nou and build on an already successful start to this professional career.