Spanish outlet SPORT have reported that Chelsea and Barcelona have ceased talks over Cesar Azpilicueta and Marcos Alonso. This comes as a surprise as the Blues are in a process of trimming the squad and replenishing with new faces. Azpilicueta has made his priorities clear on staying with Chelsea but had not shut the door on a transfer to Barcelona. In fact, it was reported that the Spaniard was certain that the Blues would not stand in his way if he wanted to leave.
Marcos Alonso has been a peculiar case as he has had a crucial part to play in Chelsea's recent success. He has not been favoured by many of the Chelsea faithful but has been widely appreciated as an attacking wing-back. The Spaniard is also tipped for a move to Barcelona with just one year remaining on his contract.
In terms of defence, Chelsea have not had the best of luck in the transfer window. Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen's departures have set them back massively and it is imperative that they are able to fill the void left. There are a number of reasons to want to keep Azpilicueta and Alonso at Chelsea - here are just three.
