Transfer News: Marcos Alonso set for contract talks with Chelsea amid Barcelona interest

Marcos Alonso has confirmed that he is in advanced talks with Chelsea over a new deal, meaning he is set to snub Barcelona to remain with the Blues

In an interview with AS, Marcos Alonso has insisted that he is set to renew his deal with Chelsea, with contract negotiations already reaching an advanced stage. The Spanish international is the subject of interest from Barcelona but has insisted that he is happy and content at Stamford Bridge.

Alonso’s career has been transformed ever since he joined Chelsea from Fiorentina in the summer of 2016. Over the last couple of years, the players has not only gone on to establish himself as one of the best in the Premier League, but has also broken into the Spanish National Side.

In the initial months of the 2018-19 season, the 27-year-old has been one of the standout full-backs in the English top flight, particularly playing a key role in the final third. But, his success has brought the spotlight on him, with some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Barcelona, having their sights set on him.

The interest from Barcelona does make some sense, considering they are in a precarious situation over the future of Jordi Alba. While Alba still has nearly two years left on his current deal at Camp Nou, the Blaugrana have informed him that they will not be offering him a new contract anytime soon, which could prompt him to seek a new challenge.

Alonso is thus, a viable target for Barcelona, with his exploits in the final third for Chelsea suggesting that he could perhaps seamlessly adjust as Alba’s replacement. But, the La Liga champions have received a major blow in pursuit of the 27-year-old, who has reaffirmed his loyalty to Chelsea while adding that he is in talks with them over a new deal.

“What I can say is that I am very calm and very happy at Chelsea. The club must also be happy with me because, although I still have two years left on the contract, they have offered me an extension. We are talking about it and the talks to renew are already advanced. If everything goes well, I think I will sign before the end of the month. In the coming days.”

Alonso’s comments should all but end Barcelona’s pursuit, considering the two parties are on the verge of reaching an agreement over a new contract. The Blaugrana will now have to set their sights elsewhere in their bid to bolster the left side of defence.

As far as Alonso is concerned, his spell at Chelsea looks set to extend, although the duration of the new deal has not exactly been specified.