La Liga giants Barcelona have been keen to show their interest in Arsenal’s Hector Bellerín over the past few seasons but they’re now preparing alternatives if a move for the full-back proves too difficult to complete – including for one of Chelsea’s best players.

In a report from the Daily Star, it is suggested that Barcelona are tracking the progress of Cesar Azpilicueta.

The 27-year-old has been a consistent performer for Chelsea in recent seasons and following his move from Marseille in 2012, continues to mature with experience.

Having made his 200th competitive club appearance in December last year, he is a fan favourite in west London and many would be reluctant to see him depart for pastures new.

Barcelona though, are an attractive proposal for any player – not least a talented Spaniard who’d be potentially open to a move back home.

With improved contract terms agreed last year too, it’s unlikely that Azpilicueta would be allowed to leave for any less than £30m.

Who would Barca approach this summer then: Azpi or Bellerín?

This is where developments on Bellerín’s future become interesting.

Hector, 22, is enduring a tough spell at Arsenal and recent results suggest qualification for next season’s Champions League seem all but gone.

As a result, Barcelona would be keen to reignite their interest in someone they helped develop within their academy for eight years prior to a move to north London.

hector bar
Bellerín has been heavily linked with a move back to Barcelona in recent seasons and despite a lucrative contract extension, is still high on their list of defensive targets to approach this summer. (Picture: Getty Images)

Ultimately, his successful switch into a successful right-back as well as the first-team opportunities afforded means that he is keen to show some loyalty to Arsenal.

However, Arsène Wenger’s future is still uncertain and a squad overhaul seems likely this summer.

Unless things improve, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Barcelona trying their utmostto unsettle the youngster.