Cesar Azpilicueta has re-committed to Chelsea by penning an extension with the Blues amid Barcelona’s long-running pursuit of the Spanish defender.
The 32-year-old, who is Chelsea’s club captain, had been chased by Barcelona throughout the off-season.
Azpilicueta has signed a two-year extension keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2024, having triggered a one-year addition last term.
Chelsea’s backline had been depleted following the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this off-season.
Azpilicueta said: “I am really happy to extend my stay at Chelsea, my home. It is almost 10 years since I first arrived and joined the club so I really feel the love and I am really excited for the new project we have in our hands.
“I am really looking forward to continuing our adventure. I am a really proud captain and I hope we can share many good memories together.”
Azpilicueta has won numerous titles since his switch to Chelsea in 2012, including lifting the 2020-21 UEFA Champions League crown, along with two Premier League titles.
He has also won the FA Cup once and been a runner-up four times, as well as winning two League Cups and the Europa League twice along with the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup.
Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly said: We are so happy that Cesar is staying at Chelsea for a minimum of two more years.
“We are thrilled with our captain showing his exemplary commitment and leadership yet again. There is still so much to do together.”
Thomas Tuchel’s side have added Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli to their defence this off-season, while Raheem Sterling has also arrived from Manchester City.
Earlier this week, 18-year-old Austria-born England youth international midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka joined from Aston Villa for 20 million pounds.
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