Manchester United have been linked with a shock summer move for Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell.
Reports suggest United are exploring bringing in a new left-back this summer after being plagued by injuries last season.
Luke Shaw managed just 15 appearances in all competitions, while backup Tyrell Malacia missed the entire campaign through injury.
According to the Daily Mail, United see Chilwell as a potential target this summer as part of their push to rejuvenate their back line.
Links between United and Chilwell emerged shortly after United completed the hiring of former Chelsea director Christopher Vivell, who has agreed to a short-term deal at Old Trafford to help with the club’s summer recruitment.
Chilwell, whose contract still has three years left to run, is facing an uncertain future at Chelsea following the arrival of new manager Enzo Maresca.
Maresca’s preferred tactical setup does not give priority to natural full-backs like Chilwell and instead prefers inverted options who can help out either at centre-back or in midfield.
Spain international Marc Cucurella has experience at centre-back, while Chelsea are close to securing the signing of the versatile Renato Veiga, who is a natural midfielder but has plenty of experience both as a centre-back and a left-back.
Veiga’s impending €14m (£11.8m) move to Stamford Bridge has opened the door to a potential departure for Chilwell, who is reported to be available for the right price this summer.
Any deal for Chilwell would likely be an expensive one and so United are known to be looking at alternative targets, with a move for Tottenham Hotspur’s Sergio Reguilon on the table once again.
Reguilon spent the first half of last season on loan with United, who terminated the deal in January before setbacks to both Shaw and Malacia ultimately left manager Erik ten Hag furious at the decision to part ways with the Spaniard.
What we know
- Man Utd keen to sign new left-back after injuries plagued Shaw & Malacia last season
- Ben Chilwell touted as potential target for Red Devils
- Chelsea reportedly open to parting ways with vice-captain for right price.