Manchester United has expressed interest in securing a loan deal for Chelsea’s defender, Marc Cucurella.
The Red Devils are currently facing a left-back shortage due to a muscle injury sustained by their regular left-back, Luke Shaw.
Initially expected to be sidelined for several weeks, the injury prognosis now suggests Shaw could be out for a more extended period, potentially up to two months.
With deputy Tyrell Malacia also injured and Brandon Williams on loan to Ipswich, United is left with limited senior options on the left side of their defense.
Exploring Left-Back Options
Manchester United is actively exploring options to address their left-back deficiency before the summer transfer window closes.
Among these options, the club has considered Marc Cucurella.
However, it remains uncertain whether Chelsea would be willing to facilitate Cucurella’s move to a Premier League rival.
Cucurella’s Struggles at Chelsea
Marc Cucurella has faced challenges since his transfer to Stamford Bridge from Brighton last summer in a deal exceeding £60 million, coupled with a six-year contract.
His defensive performances last season drew criticism, and he even faced disapproval from sections of Chelsea’s fanbase during matches against West Ham and Borussia Dortmund in February.
Previous Interest and Recent Developments
During the summer, Chelsea explored opportunities to offload Cucurella, inquiring about potential moves to Saudi Arabian clubs.
Atletico Madrid also briefly showed interest, and there were links to Newcastle, although they ultimately signed Lewis Hall from Chelsea instead.
Cucurella expressed a desire to compete for a place at Chelsea under new manager Mauricio Pochettino during pre-season but has yet to make an appearance in the early stages of the 2023/24 campaign, remaining an unused substitute for all three Premier League matches.
Competition for Left-Back Position
Cucurella faces strong competition at Chelsea, with Ben Chilwell occupying the primary left-back position under Pochettino.
The departure of academy graduate Lewis Hall to Newcastle has reduced Chelsea’s backup options, though players like Ian Maatsen are still part of the squad.
Alternative Left-Back Targets
In addition to Cucurella, Manchester United has been linked with Tottenham’s Sergio Reguilon and former Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso, who now plays for Barcelona.
These potential signings are being considered as United seeks a solution to their left-back crisis before the transfer window deadline.
Conclusion: Manchester United’s Challenge
Manchester United’s pursuit of Marc Cucurella reflects the urgency to bolster their left-back position in light of Luke Shaw’s injury.
However, the success of this pursuit hinges on Chelsea’s willingness to allow Cucurella to join a Premier League rival.
The club faces a challenging start to the season, with several key players sidelined due to injury, making strengthening the squad a top priority.
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