If you were to take it as read that Ben Chilwell has either lost some of his top gear because of constant injuries, or just can’t be relied on to stay fit long term, either of which would be a fair belief, then buying a new left back at some point is on the agenda for Chelsea.
Marc Cucurella, most fans will admit, is never going to be top class. Plenty would argue he’s not even Premier League class. It seems likely that with his attributes he could look a lot better – and even quite good – in a system really built to suit him, with a functioning team all around. But he’s not going to raise our level on his own.
With Lewis Hall and Ian Maatsen leaving this summer to free up some financial headroom, a new left back seems a very likely addition, if not this summer then next.
Going by the pattern set in the last two years, they will be an under 23. Very possibly from Brazil, but if they’re to play in the first team, perhaps more likely from Europe.
The best U21 left back in Europe this season has been Bradley Locko of Brest, at least according to WhoScored ratings.
We’ve been linked with him before, and at this very simple level he fits the bill. Chelsea would be a big step up for him, but like Malo Gusto before him, he’d see a solid chance at good minutes.
We’d expect this interest to grow if Cucurella and Chilwell don’t see out the season on a high.
