There are reports Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta’s recent below par performance for his London club has put two Spanish clubs on alert with a view to luring him home.

La Liga sides Atletico Bilbao and Real Sociedad are keeping a close eye on the defender’s blip in form and his forthcoming battle to remain first choice right back.

New Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is fast-tracking academy full back Reece James back to fitness after ankle surgery in the summer,report The Sun.

The teenager is expected to resume training during the current international break so that Lampard can monitor his progress while the senior players are away playing for their countries.

He may even be ready to play some part in the next Premier League game – at Wolves on Saturday week.

That will put added pressure on long-serving Azpilicueta who has been at Chelsea for seven years and is the club captain.