Former Liverpool defender Glen Johnson says Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella would be his “first choice” to replace Andy Robertson at left-back.
Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is believed to be the favourite to make the switch to Anfield, but speaking to WDW Bingo, Johnson said that he would consider making a raid for the Spanish international after he impressed against Mo Salah a couple of weeks ago:
“If I were Liverpool, I would be doing everything I could to sign Marc Cucurella, he would be my first choice Robertson replacement. I’m not sure if he is available, but he is by far the best left-back in the Premier League, and everyone is available for the right price. He has really kicked on since the Euros last year, and the best I have seen him play was against Liverpool a few weeks ago, up against the best winger in the league.”
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“He is a live wire, he seems to be buzzing about all over the pitch all game long. He defends really well, is great on the ball, but he is also capable of popping up in the opponent’s box and contributing goals and assists. Cucurella is being massively overlooked by Liverpool in their search for a left-back, but I doubt Chelsea would be keen to let him go.”
Is Cucurella a realistic target?
As Johnson mentions himself, it is doubtful whether Chelsea would be willing to sell the 26-year-old. Having signed him from Brighton for £63m in 2022, he would likely cost just as much or even more now, considering his recent form.
The fact that he will turn 27 in July would also count against him. The Reds rarely sign players in their late 20s, unless they are available for a low price. Cucurella’s contract runs until 2028 so his club are in a strong position on that front as well.
Liverpool are looking to sign a left-back
While a move for Cucurella is a non-starter, the left-hand side of defence is an area that sporting director Richard Hughes wants to strengthen over the coming weeks.
As mentioned, the Reds do like Kerkez, but there have also been links to the likes of Ajax’s Jorrel Hato and Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri. It remains to be seen which of these left-backs will end up at Anfield.
Click here to see Liverpool’s first team squad for the 2024/25 season