Manchester United want to sign a left-back this summer as they seek to strengthen their squad ahead of next season.
Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella has emerged as a possible target. The Spaniard is open to leaving the west London outfit after questioning the club’s policy.
United considered a loan deal for him in 2023 following injuries to Tyrell Malacia to and Luke Shaw. They went on to sign Sergio Reguilon instead.
The Red Devils’ hopes of eventually signing the former Brighton star have now been dealt a huge blow.
The Sun claim that Cucurella prefers to move abroad if he leaves Chelsea this summer.
Described as ‘intelligent‘ by former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, the 27-year-old is likely to move to Spain. He is a priority target for Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.
United should step up interest in Lewis Hall after Cucurella blow
United have recently given preference to Premier League-proven players. It is one reason behind their interest in Cucurella.
With the Chelsea defender favouring a move elsewhere, United should focus their attention on signing Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall.
The Red Devils have already been linked with Hall. Director of football Jason Wilcox is a ‘big admirer’ of the English left-back.
Hall is open to leaving Newcastle this summer, but a deal may be costly, as he has three years left on his contract.
The 21-year-old is one of the best young left-backs in Europe’s top five leagues, making him a credible alternative for United.
He ranked first for possession-adjusted interceptions, shots blocked, and possession won among U21 full-backs across the top five leagues in Europe last season, highlighting his defensive attributes.
The Newcastle star is also effective in possession. He ranked first for progressive actions, forward passes, and progressive passes completed. He was second for crosses to the box and third for passes into the final third.
Hall does not have Cucurella’s experience yet, but has the potential to become a better left-back than the Spaniard.
Stats from datamb.com
