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Two Chelsea defenders 'on Manchester United's radar'

Two Chelsea defenders 'on Manchester United's radar'
© Reuters
Chelsea's defensive duo Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell are of interest to Manchester United, according to a report.

Manchester United are reportedly considering making a move for either Marc Cucurella or Ben Chilwell during this summer's transfer window, with the club expected to bring in a new left-back.

Luke Shaw's fitness problems have seen him restricted to just 15 appearances this season, while Tyrell Malacia has not played at all for the Red Devils during the 2023-24 campaign due to a knee injury which has required him to undergo two operations in quick succession.

Diogo Dalot, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof and Sofyan Amrabat have all filled-in at left-back this season, with the position proving to be problematic for the 20-time English champions.

Man United will not have Champions League money for next season, which will restrict their summer spending, while the club are also working to strict financial rules.

However, it is expected to be a busy summer for the Red Devils even if they miss out on securing European football altogether for the 2024-25 campaign.

Chelsea's Marc Cucurella is shown a yellow card by referee Simon Hooper on November 25, 2023© Reuters

Cucurella, Chilwell 'emerge as targets for Man United'

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Man United view Chelsea duo Cucurella and Chilwell as potential targets during the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are believed to have been close to signing Cucurella on loan last summer to ease their left-back issues, but a deal eventually broke down, with Sergio Reguilon then arriving from Tottenham Hotspur.

Cucurella has been a regular for the Blues this season, making 25 appearances in all competitions, scoring once and providing two assists in the process.

The 25-year-old has another four years left to run on his contract at Stamford Bridge, meanwhile, but it is understood that he could be allowed to leave during the summer market.

The former Barcelona youngster starred during his time at Brighton & Hove Albion and has now made 58 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions.

Chelsea's Ben Chilwell looks dejected after the match on September 24, 2023© Reuters

Chilwell's injury record 'is a concern for Man United'

Chilwell is also allegedly admired by Man United, but the 20-time English champions are wary of a move for the Englishman due to his injury problems.

The ex-Leicester City defender has only made 21 appearances during the 2023-24 campaign due to fitness issues, with just 13 of those outings coming in the Premier League.

Chilwell has only been involved in England's top flight once since the start of March, but he was back on the bench against Brighton on Wednesday night after a spell out with a knee problem.

The 27-year-old has another three years left on his deal, but Chelsea could allegedly be persuaded to do business at the right price.

Shaw is believed to have an outside chance of returning to the Man United squad for the FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 25, but Malacia is definitely unavailable for selection until next season.

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Written by
Matt Law

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