Atletico Madrid has secured a deal to sign Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta, disrupting Inter Milan's anticipated summer transfer target. The 33-year-old defender had been in negotiations with Inter for several weeks, and personal terms had been previously verbally agreed upon, with Azpilicueta reportedly keen to join last season's Champions League runners-up. However, driven by his family's persistent wishes, the Spaniard is now poised to return to his home nation with the Madrid-based club. A two-year contract has been finalized, binding Azpilicueta to Atletico Madrid until the summer of 2025.
Azpilicueta enjoyed an eleven-year tenure at Chelsea, joining from Ligue One side Olympique de Marseille for a fee slightly over £7 million. During his time at Chelsea, he assumed the role of club captain and secured nine major trophies, most notably the Champions League in 2021. Having achieved nearly every significant accolade, Azpilicueta seeks a fresh challenge with the eleven-time La Liga champions. Since leaving Spanish side Osasuna for a £5 million move to Marseille in 2010, he has not played in La Liga.
As mentioned earlier, Azpilicueta's family has been the driving force behind this move, ensuring that personal terms will not be an issue between the Spanish defender and Atletico Madrid. The seasoned veteran is highly focused on the switch and his return to Spain. Atletico Madrid will now finalize the signing, with talks between the player and the club reported as "completed" according to Fabrizio Romano.
Cesar Azpilicueta's addition will bring much-needed experience to Diego Simeone's side, making him their most senior defender. After finishing third last season, eleven points behind league winners Barcelona and losing the Copa Del Rey final to rivals Real Madrid, Atletico aims to improve upon a disappointing campaign and narrow the gap with their fierce Spanish competitors. Azpilicueta's remarkable versatility and consistent high-level performance will undoubtedly bring stability to Atletico Madrid's defense. Throughout his illustrious, trophy-filled career, Azpilicueta has excelled as both a central defender and a right-back. On his return to Spain, he will seek to contribute his wisdom and extensive knowledge of the game.
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