It appears as though Atlético Madrid have won the race to sign César Azpilicueta. As reported by Fabrizio Romano and later confirmed by Relevo, the Chelsea player is “one step away” from officially becoming an Atlético player, where he will sign a two-year deal.
Azpilicueta is set to leave Stamford Bridge on a free transfer despite still being under contract until 2024. He will leave the club on great terms after enjoying 11 seasons with the Londoners. The Spanish international had an impressive spell at Chelsea, lifting two UEFA Europa League trophies, one UEFA Champions League trophy, two Premier League titles and two domestic cups.
Azpilicueta hasn’t played in Spain since 2010, when he lined out for Osasuna, his boyhood club. Joining the Osasuna academy in 2001, he remained there for five years before making appearances for the B team in 2006. He then played for the senior team for three seasons until leaving for Marseille in the summer of 2010.
The veteran defender had interest from various parties including Inter Milan, who look to have lost out on the Spanish defender.
Jake Staniland | GSFN
