Chelsea target told he can leave Marseille

Marseille have opened the door for Cesar Azpilicueta’s move to Chelsea after the French club admitted they need to reduce their wage bill

Chairman of the French club Vincent Labrune has admitted that right back is one of at least three players to will be allowed to follow new West Ham United signing Alou Diarra through the exit door as the Ligue 1 club’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League has hit them in the pocket.

“For the next three weeks, as it has been since the start of the transfer window, our objective is very clear - we must sell players,” Labrune France Football.

“It is a major shareholders’ instruction. The objectives set by the shareholders about selling are drastic. We are trying to sell to reduce the wage bill.

“Our priority since May has been to get money to make up for the loss due to the 10th position last season and missing out on Champions League qualification.

“Alou Diarra’s transfer? In the current context, and considering the market, everyone is happy - the player, West Ham and us. Initially, we didn’t forecast selling him.

“We have three players we have agreed to let leave - Cesar Azpilicueta, Stephane Mbia and either Loic Remy or Andre Ayew.

“However, we have changed our mind about Loic. We will see, but we would like to keep him. However, it is difficult to have a definitive position.

“If Chelsea makes a fair offer for Aspi, we will let him leave. If there is a good offer for Stephane Mbia, we will let him leave too. We are working in good terms both with Cesar and Stephane.”