Azpilicueta ends talks with Barca by signing new deal with Chelsea

Cesar Azpilicueta has ended speculation that he could join Barcelona by signing a new contract with Chelsea until 2024.

The long-serving captain had less than a year left on his previous contract with the Blues and became a target for Barca.

Azpilicueta will not return to his homeland, after the defender agreed to stay at Stamford Bridge for at least two more seasons.

The 32-year-old joined the London club from Marseille in August 2012 and won every major trophy during his decade at Stamford Bridge.

Won the Premier League twice, FA Cup, League Cup, Champions League, won the Europa League twice, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA World Cup FIFA clubs.

The skipper said: "I'm really happy to extend my stay at Chelsea, my home. It's been almost 10 years since I arrived and joined the club, so I really feel the love and I am really excited for the new project we have in our hands.

“I would like to thank Mr Todd [Boehly, chairman and co-owner of Chelsea] and Mr Behdad [Eghbali, co-owner of the Blues] for giving me the opportunity to continue my journey at this incredible club. I'm really looking forward to continuing our adventure. I'm a very proud captain and I hope we can share many great memories together."

Azpilicueta's decision to stay at Chelsea is a major boost for head coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of his side's first Premier League game of the season at Everton on Saturday.

The Spain international, who played in a back three and as a winger under Tuchel, made 47 appearances last season to take his tally for the Blues to a whopping 476.

Boehly said: "We are so happy that Cesar will stay at Chelsea for at least two more years. We are delighted that our captain is once again demonstrating his exemplary commitment and leadership. There is still so much to do together ."