Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso 'open to Chelsea exit in January'

Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso are reportedly prepared to leave Chelsea in order to boost their chances of representing Spain at the 2022 World Cup.

Both players have been used on a regular basis this season, the pair featuring in 11 of Chelsea's 17 games in the Premier League.

However, neither are regarded as first choice in their respective positions, and it appears that will come into their thinking when assessing their future.

Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast, journalist Ian McGarry claims that Azpilicueta and Alonso are open to departing Stamford Bridge at the midway point of the campaign.

McGarry suggests that both players being on the wrong side of 30 has resulted in them each wanting to give themselves the best opportunity of playing for their nation in Qatar.

Azpilicueta is seemingly most likely to depart Chelsea with the 32-year-old's contract due to expire at the end of the season.