Chelsea face a difficult battle to re-sign Lewis Hall after the Newcastle United defender reportedly made Manchester United his preferred destination.
The Blues continue to monitor their former academy player as Xabi Alonso searches for a specialist left-back following Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid.
However, TEAMtalk reports that Hall is attracted by the chance to work under Michael Carrick at Old Trafford. Manchester United reportedly view him as their leading option on the left side of defence.
The 21-year-old would initially compete with Luke Shaw before potentially becoming United’s long-term first-choice left-back. That pathway is believed to appeal to Hall as he considers his future at Newcastle.
Chelsea face expensive Hall decision
Chelsea have already examined the merits of bringing Hall back to Stamford Bridge after selling him to Newcastle in a deal worth up to £35m.
Hall would provide Premier League experience, tactical flexibility and an understanding of Chelsea’s academy system. His background as a midfielder could also suit Alonso, whose full-backs need to contribute during build-up play.
However, Newcastle reportedly value the England international at around £60m. Paying close to twice the amount received for Hall would place Chelsea’s previous decision under fresh scrutiny.
Manchester United’s position creates another complication. Hall appears to view Old Trafford as the clearer route towards regular football, with Shaw now approaching the later stages of his career.
Chelsea would need to present a convincing sporting plan before entering serious negotiations. Alonso can offer an immediate vacancy following Cucurella’s departure, but the Blues are considering several left-back options.
Gabriel Gudmundsson, Pep Chavarria and Andrea Cambiaso have all featured in reports during the summer.
Hall remains an attractive option because of his age and Premier League development. His reported preference for Manchester United, combined with Newcastle’s valuation, may force Chelsea to focus their attention elsewhere.
