Chelsea’s key defensive lynchpin could be used in part-exchange deal

Chelsea may offer Cesar Azpilicueta in a part-exchange deal to seal the transfer of Juventus full back Alex Sandro, according to Calciomercato.it.

With the Bianconeri having to cope with the departure of Dani Alves already this summer, the loss of another vital first team member in a full back position may make Juve even more reluctant to sell.

The Gazzetta Dello Sport are reporting that the Blues are prepared to increase their bid for the Brazilian from €60m to €70m, but with Juventus extremely reluctant to let the left back leave, Antonio Conte may have to figure out another way of getting his man. To sweeten the deal, the Italian website believes Azpilicueta could be offered as a makeweight in a deal for Sandro.

Considering the Spaniard’s importance to Chelsea’s back three last season, such an offer looks extremely unlikely. Conte played Azpilicueta in 47 matches in all competitions last season, and his flexibility to play right across the back line makes him an important first team player.