Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for Real Madrid.
After spending a decade at Stamford Bridge, the 33-year-old was expected to take on a new challenge in the summer with Barcelona known to be a possibility.
However, with developments with the transfer having been held up due to the financial situation at the Catalan giants, Azpilicueta ultimately decided to pen a new two-year deal with the Blues after talks with the new owners.
Since then, Azpilicueta has been provided with 10 starts and seven substitute appearances in all competitions, remaining a key figure in the squad.
Nevertheless, with Reece James viewed as first choice at right-back or wing-back, Azpilicueta does not stand to hold his spot in the team upon the academy graduate's return from injury.
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According to Fichajes, Azpilicueta could be provided with the chance to sign for Real Madrid ahead of 2023-24.
While the report hints that is the most likely approach for Real, it is claimed that they may be prepared to part with €10m (£8.6m) in January to secure his services.
Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez are currently viewed as Carlo Ancelotti's two primary options at right-back, the former making 10 league starts in comparison to four for the latter.
The duo have contracts until 2025 and 2024 respectively, making any move for Azpilicueta not necessarily a priority, but Real may part ways with two fringe players at the turn of the year.
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The report suggests that Los Blancos would likely act if Nacho and Jesus Vallejo move on the pastures new having each barely featured since the middle of August.
Although both players are centre-backs, it is claimed that Azpilicueta's versatility, experience and low transfer fee could swing in favour of Real making an official bid.
Azpilicueta remains highly regarded in the Spain national team having made two starts in the World Cup, La Roja not conceding a goal in his 135 minutes of action.
Spain's capitulation versus Japan in their final group fixture came after Azpilicueta's half-time withdrawal, making it likely that he starts the last-16 showdown with Morocco on Tuesday.
Darren Plant
