Transfer window: Chelsea trio ‘among five players on Barca’s wanted list’
Barcelona have reportedly made enquiries for five players, including three Chelsea defenders, ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Catalan giants, who made three signings in January, are already preparing to bolster their squad further and they have drawn up a list of targets ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.
Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland is believed to be Barca’s primary target, though they are set to face stern competition from the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain for the Norwegian’s services.
Head coach Xavi is also keen to reinforce his defence and midfield in the summer, and ESPN reports that Barcelona have made contact with Chelsea over the availability of Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso and Andreas Christensen.
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Azpilicueta and Christensen are both out of contract in the summer and can now negotiate pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs, while Alonso has just under 18 months remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge.
The report adds that Barca have also made enquiries for Valencia left-back Jose Gaya and AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie.
Gaya is believed to be Xavi’s preferred left-back target, ahead of Alonso, and he views him as a potential long-term replacement for Jordi Alba, while initial talks have already been held with Kessie, who has less than five months remaining on his contract at San Siro.