Chelsea unperturbed by Azpilicueta speculation

Premier League holders Chelsea are confident of keeping hold of Cesar Azpilicueta despite the impending interest from Barcelona.

The Catalan giants have been linked with a whole lot of right-backs since Dani Alves left for Juventus in the summer of 2016.

However, it is now reported that Azpilicueta is topping their shortlist for the summer with new manager Ernesto Valverde a huge admirer of the Spaniard's talents.

Azpilicueta was ever-present for the Blues as part of a three-man defence, and he held an individual record of having not missed a single minute of Premier League action.

The former Marseille man was rewarded with a long-term contract earlier in the season, and according to The Mail, the Blues are confident of fending off any interest from their European rivals.

Azpilicueta previously featured for minnows Osasuna in his home nation before making the switch to Marseille in the summer of 2010. He therein linked up with the English champions two years later where he has made himself a favourite among the club's faithful.