Barcelona could now turn to Chelsea’s Cesar Azpilicueta after failing to sign Hector Bellerin.

• Chelsea’s signing of Antonio Rudiger could allow Azpilicueta to leave
• Barcelona want to strengthen their defence
• Azpilicueta is a target after they failed to sign Bellerin

Bellerin had been new Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde’s first choice defensive signing this summer, but Arsenal have dug their heels in and have refused to sell. And according to The Sun, Barcelona could now turn their attention to Azpilicueta.

Azpilicueta is regarded as a reliable and versatile defender who could cover several positions in Barcelona’s backline. He’s been a target for Barca before, but Chelsea’s recent signing of German centre back Antonio Rudiger has given the Spanish side renewed hope of getting a deal done.

This is good news for Arsenal, as Barcelona’s pursuit of Azpilicueta would surely mean the end of their courting of the £50m-rated Bellerin. That alone would almost feel like a new signing.