Man United in Talks with Chelsea for Loan Deal on Cucurella
Manchester United is currently engaged in discussions with Chelsea concerning a potential loan arrangement for Marc Cucurella, the left-back. The player has reached an agreement on personal terms with the Red Devils. Cucurella, who made a significant £62 million transfer from Brighton to Stamford Bridge last summer, has seen limited playing time.
This move comes as Manchester United faces challenges due to injuries affecting their regular left-back choices, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. With both players sidelined, 20-year-old Alvaro Fernandez remains the sole recognized left-back option. In a recent match against Nottingham Forest, Portuguese right-back Diogo Dalot stepped in on the left side.
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United offered a loan fee of £2.5 million to Chelsea for Cucurella’s services. However, Chelsea is requesting a loan fee of £5 million, indicating ongoing negotiations between the two clubs. Cucurella has yet to secure a spot in the starting lineup under new Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino.
As transfer deadline approaches, Erik ten Hag also seeks to acquire Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat. Notably, Manchester United’s interest in loan deals stems from a desire to avoid costly permanent transfers, particularly after incurring a £256,000 fine for violating UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations in July.
Amidst these developments, the mainstay left-back, Luke Shaw, is set to face an extended period of absence due to injury. Manchester United’s pursuit of Cucurella reflects their determination to reinforce their squad and address challenges arising from injuries and financial considerations.
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By Simon Jones and Ben Willcocks For Mailonline
Updated: 09:43 EDT, 30 August 2023
