Chelsea FC Transfer Rumours: Azpilicueta Nearing Blues Switch?

Earlier today we had a report out of France suggesting Cesar Azpilicueta was heading out of Marsielle quite shortly. According to La Provence, while 'Azpi' will be in London linking up with his teammates, [he'll also possibly be captaining Team Spain] his agents are going to be a busy lot, looking to strike a swift deal.

Azpilicueta apparently has already agreed terms with us, and his agents are pushing for a quick resolution, with a deal mooted to be completed in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

The article notes Chelsea are in pole position to secure his signature owing to Di Matteo's supposed fondness for the right back, but Newcastle, who aren't making headway with their Debuchy deal & Liverpool, who for some reason are looking to offload Glen Johnson [?!] could also 'join the dance'.

Among other things mentioned, the piece notes Marseille are in urgent need of money for their own round of summer spending, and since a Loic Remy sale is looking unlikely, Azpilicueta might be their only profitable asset. A transfer fee of between €8-10M is suggested, with a Marseille insider quoted as saying €9M should be enough.

If all details mentioned are authentic, expect the English tabloids to be right on top of this tomorrow, if not, hey it's silly season, anything's possible. One great thing about the Olympics? They've brought the youngest, brightest talent from around the world on exhibition right under Chelsea's noses. Dandy right?