Manchester United eyeing Chelsea raid to address key defensive injury

Manchester United are considering a loan bid for Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella

Manchester United are lining up a surprise loan move for Chelsea left-back Marcu Cucurella, who has yet to feature for the West Londoners this season as they struggle to replace an injured Luke Shaw before the summer transfer window closes..

According to Fabrizio Romano, (h/t Sun) Manchester United are exploring their options and have also added Cucurella to the wishlist. The Spaniard surely could do with a new opportunity even if it is away from Stamford Bridge.

Injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have forced United to look for a left-back in the transfer market, and they have identified Cucurella to fill the spot.

The Spanish left-back has not made an appearance for the West Londoners this season, and his game time could be reduced considering Mauricio Pochettino has Ben Chilwell and Ian Maatsen. Chelsea, who signed the 25-year-old for £65 million, failed to show his worth last season, which saw the Blues open to selling him.

Now that Maatsen convinced Pochettino during pre-season, Cucurella seems to have fallen down the pecking order in the Argentine manager’s plans for this campaign, and a switch to another will be the best shot to revive his career again. Newcastle United were also interested in signing the left-back but instead bought Lewis Hall on loan with an obligation to buy.

Cucurella might be sent out on loan by Chelsea so that he can play more and perhaps find his form under Erik ten Hag. He will also have the opportunity to compete in the Champions League, and if he makes an impression at United, the Blues might consider bringing him back later in the following year. The Spanish player has not yet made an appearance for the Blues since Pochettino has chosen to rely on Maatsen and Chilwell.

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This will also enable Maatsen to function from his preferred position after he has mostly functioned from the wings. This loan move may be advantageous for all parties since he will be United’s regular starter until Shaw is back, but it remains to be seen since United has not yet made a bid for him.