Agent comments open door for Ben Chilwell exit amid Marc Cucurella Chelsea transfer stance
The agent of Marc Cucurella says his client wishes to remain at Chelsea and suggested that the defender is due to stay at the club as things stand.
The left-back has been linked with a potential exit from Stamford Bridge this summer, and stoked the speculation fire last weekend by stating: “La Liga is my home,” before adding: “But I’m very happy in England, which is a great experience for me and my family.” A number of Chelsea players have been tipped to leave the Blues this summer, including English talent such as Conor Gallagher and Trevoh Chalobah.
Meanwhile, Ben Chilwell, 27, has been touted as a potential target for Manchester United. The Chelsea vice-captain, who only played 21 matches last season due to the three separate instances of serious injury, is seen as one of the senior figures inside the dressing room, being one of only a handful over the age of 25.
Manchester United struggled for options at left-back last season with Luke Shaw beset with constant injuries, while Tyrell Malacia sat out the season due to recovery setbacks in his return from major knee surgery. Shaw has returned to action for England at Euro 2024 having been out since February while Malacia is back in individual training, albeit with no timeframe over his full return.
Reports suggest Erik ten Hag may consider a swoop for Chilwell if he is unhappy with the levels of either player. Cucurella staying at Chelsea would guarantee the club a natural senior left-back option, with Levi Colwill a centre- back by trade.
The Blues have been linked with a number of potential young full-back signings but none would offer the experience of current options. Should Cucurella indeed stay on, it could open the door for a Chilwell exit for the right price. Speaking to Cadena Ser , agent Aleix Pique has shut down any talk of his client Cucurella leaving Chelsea, stating:
“There is practically no chance that he will leave Chelsea this season despite his great tournament. “He is very comfortable and happy at Chelsea, in London and his idea is to continue. Under normal conditions, he will continue.”
Chilwell still has four years left on his Chelsea deal, having arrived at the club in August 2020 in a £50m deal. The Blues are likely to make a loss on any exert fee they secure for him.