Barcelona are 'close to reaching an agreement' with Chelsea for Marcos Alonso...

In order to get Marcos Alonso, Barcelona is apparently close to an agreement with Chelsea, but their pursuit of Cesar Azpilicueta has grown challenging.

Alonso's future at Stamford Bridge has been a talking point this summer due to his eagerness to return to Spain. 

Chelsea's defence has been significantly weakened following the departures of centre-back pair Antonio Rudiger and Anders Christiansen.

defensive exodus could continue next week, with Barcelona hopeful of signing Alonso for £8.6million (10m Euros) according to Sport.

The 31-year-old confirmed he wants to leave Chelsea last month, saying: 'On paper, I have a contract for one more year and that is where we’re at today. I’ve already said that I would like to play in Spain again, but it doesn’t depend entirely on me.

'I can’t complain about anything at Chelsea, but the desire to play in Spain is there. It doesn’t depend entirely on me and I’m happy at Chelsea, honestly.' 

Meanwhile, Barcelona's chase of fellow fullback Azpilicueta is said to be complicated despite him approving a move to the club.

The Sport report claims Chelsea have agreed to let the player depart and promised to negotiate a deal with Barcelona but the Blues' change in ownership has delayed the process. 

The two clubs are set to meet next week to discuss a deal. Like Alonso, Barcelona value Azpilicueta at £8.6m but Chelsea are said to be keen to get more - something which Xavi's side are unwilling to do at the moment.

Chelsea captain Azpilicueta is under contract at Stamford Bridge until next year but is thought to be keen on a return to Spain.