Barcelona are putting pressure on Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta to formally request a transfer as they threaten to move on to signing an alternative target, according to The Sun.

Azpilicueta is very keen on moving to the Camp Nou and he is expected to “hold talks with Tuchel in the coming days” to try and resolve the situation.

Considering his long association with the club, Azpilicueta is not looking to force his way out, so he is hoping that an amicable solution can be reached.

It is believed that, despite having his contract automatically extended for another twelve months, Azpilicueta was promised he would be sold. However, the change of ownership has complicated matters and there is no guarantee that a move will now be sanctioned.

Barcelona have offered Azpilicueta a two-year contract, with an option for an additional year but, with manager Xavi keen to have the right-back available for pre-season, the La Liga club could decide to pull the plug on the deal if his situation isn’t resolved soon.