Barcelona are reportedly monitoring the contract situation of Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta.

The Spanish defender who has been at Stamford Bridge since 2012, is in the final year of his contract at the European champions.

He has yet to commit his future to Thomas Tuchel’s side and would currently be free to speak to foreign clubs over a pre-contract agreement in January.

ESPN have reported that his situation has alerted Barcelona, who could look to bring his experience to the Nou Camp.

Chelsea are said to be in talks to prolong his stay in London by signing him to a new contract.

Should the Spaniard run down his contract however, cash-strapped Barcelona could look to swoop in and sign him on a free transfer.

New Barcelona boss Xavi is particularly keen to secure the versatile Chelsea defender.

Xavi is said to value his ability to play at right-back, on the right of a back-three or even a centre-back in a back-four where he has played on occasion for Spain.

The 32-year-old would add leadership and experience to a youthful backline at the club which includes the likes of Sergino Dest, Eric Garcia, Oscar Mingueza and Ronald Araujo – who are all 22 and under.

Barcelona have already made a move for an experienced defender since Xavi’s arrival, with Dani Alves returning to the Nou Camp.

Alves, 38, joined on a contract until the end of the season though he won’t be able to play until January when the transfer window reopens.

Azpilicueta has made 442 appearances for Chelsea since his £7m arrival from Marseille in August 2012.