The Blues cannot pursue new contracts for existing players either, though Azpilicueta's extension was triggered via a pre-existing clause.
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Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel believes defender Cesar Azpilicueta will extend his stay at Stamford Bridge. The Premier League club cannot sign or sell any players under the terms of their current UK Government license, in light of sanctions on Russian owner Roman Abramovich. The Blues cannot pursue new contracts for existing players either, though Cesar Azpilicueta’s extension was triggered via a pre-existing clause.
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Barcelona were keeping a close eye on the recent proceedings in West London as the Spanish club is reportedly trying to sign defenders in order to bolster their squad. Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudger’s agent met with Barca’s representatives this week and Andreas Christensen has reportedly agreed to join the Blaugrana at the end of the season.
Asked about the Spaniard’s situation, Tuchel said: “Yes, I knew it was going to happen because I knew the number of games when it was going to happen. It’s a good thing; it’s good news for us.” (Credit: skysports.com)
Then asked if he expects Azpilicueta to be at Chelsea next season, Tuchel continued: “Yes, absolutely. We have a contract, he’s our captain, so there’s a very high probability that he will stay. I knew it all the time that this is very likely to happen.
“He’s a regular starter for us. You know how much I rely on him and how much impact he has on this club and this group. So, it’s very good for us.”
Rudiger’s Chelsea contract expires at the end of the season, the restrictions won’t be lifted until the new ownership is in place, which may not be until the end of the season at the earliest. That leaves the likes of Rudiger, Christensen and Azpilicueta becoming free agents at the end of the current season.
But Tuchel still believes Chelsea have a hope of keeping hold of prized defender Rudiger, once the ongoing takeover battle is complete.
“I would try to meet him if I were any other club,” said Tuchel.
“Still, he’s our player and I still think we have a good chance he stays our player once things are solved for us. Our hands are tied, we cannot offer him or negotiate or renegotiate with his agents. But I’m still confident.”
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