Chelsea is reportedly prepared to offload left-back Marc Cucurella as part of a summer overhaul in that position. The club had started the season with four left-backs but has since reduced the number to two due to loan moves by Lewis Hall and Ian Maatsen to Newcastle United and Borussia Dortmund, respectively.
Hall’s move involves a conditional obligation for a permanent transfer, which Chelsea anticipates will be triggered. Maatsen, on the other hand, is set to be available for sale upon his return from Dortmund, with a £35 million release clause in his contract.
The Guardian reports that Chelsea is open to offers for current deputy Cucurella, who has faced challenges since his £62 million move from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022 and has been sidelined for most of this season with an ankle injury.
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Cucurella’s potential departure would leave Chelsea with only vice-captain Ben Chilwell in that position. Consequently, the club is expected to re-enter the transfer market to secure cover.
Among the potential targets is 21-year-old Archie Brown from Belgian side Gent. Brown, who initially came through the Derby County academy as a winger, transitioned to a left-back in 2021 after joining Lausanne-Sport. He moved to Gent last summer and has attracted attention with his performances in Belgium. Brown, valued at £15 million, is reportedly being pursued by West Ham United, Juventus, AC Milan, Lyon, and Nice. Additionally, Brown’s 6’3 frame offers versatility, as he has even filled in at centre-back.
The need for height in defense has been a concern for Chelsea, prompting the search for a suitable solution in the transfer market.