Atletico Madrid or FC Barcelona? Somehow, the answer turned out to be Real Madrid. La Masia graduate Marc Cucurella, who has been linked with a return to Barca all summer, will instead be donning the Royal White jersey of Real Madrid. In return, Chelsea will get a €60 million transfer package. And now, they must find a proper replacement.
Reliable sources have confirmed that Chelsea have already started working on a replacement. Xabi Alonso is expected to have his say on the matter.
Alonso was believed to be keen to keep Cucurella. So, this is his first blow as a Chelsea manager. He has not even taking over the reins officially.
Fortunately, an elite replacement could be available this summer for a similar transfer fee. Now, it is about whether Chelsea can convince him.
Chelsea must sign elite left-back to join as Marc Cucurella replacement
Cucurella is one of the best left-backs in the world on his day. So, finding a replacement in his bracket won’t be easy.
There is one name though, who could actually prove to be an upgrade in that position. In my view, that player is Lewis Hall.
Yes, the same player Chelsea let go for around £30 million. It is time to bring the Cobham graduate back. And the club should do everything within their power to ensure that happens.
They will have money available, thanks to the Cucurella deal. So, they really have no excuse. Manchester United are believed to be leading the race. Chelsea must find a way to get ahead. Offer Hall what he needs to make sure this move happens.
The Alejandro Grimaldo factor
Grimaldo is one player we cannot overlook. He is one of the best in the world when it comes to playing in Alonso’s system.
His output is something that no other full-back might be able to match. And it is believed that he could be available for around €10 million.
It is very possible that Alonso might want the tried-and-tested option. But at 30 years of age, Grimaldo would not be the long-term solution.
Also, he has not played in the Premier League. How would he make the adjustment? It won’t be easy by any stretch of the imagination.
In my view, Hall should be the outstanding candidate Chelsea should be chasing now that Cucurella is leaving. Let’s bring some positivity back. Otherwise, things might already be looking bleak for Alonso.
