Xabi Alonso will have taken the Chelsea job knowing a few issues had to be sorted out this morning. A new goalkeeper, a centre-back, a striker, and possibly now, a new left-back.
Marc Cucurella’s future at Chelsea remains in doubt. Ever since his comments in March, Cucurella has been linked with the exit door. Not only are Barcelona interested, but Atletico Madrid are also linked.
What is Xabi Alonso’s number one priority as soon as he walks through those doors?🤔
Xabi Alonso's priority as Chelsea manager
Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Chelsea would like to keep Cucurella, but after four years at Stamford Bridge, the former La Masia star would surely entertain a bid this summer if Barcelona do come in for him, possibly even Atletico Madrid.
If Cucurella does leave, Chelsea need a replacement. There is a distinct lack of cover at left-back, with Jorrel Hato proving better in the middle. If Alonso uses a 3-4-2-1 system, Hato will be in the back line.
Andrea Cambiaso suits Xabi Alonso better than Marc Cucurella
Juventus star Andrea Cambiaso has emerged as a target for Chelsea. Last summer, Juventus rejected a move for Cambiaso from City, but this summer they are willing to sell for a fee between £36m and £45m.
Torino FC v Juventus Fc - Serie A
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Chelsea may be forced to replace Cucurella and the stats prove that Cambiaso would be perfect as a replacement. In fact, Cambiaso would actually suit Alonso better than Cucurella if he plays a back three.
Interest in Cambiaso suggests Alonso will use the same tactics he used at Leverkusen, a 3-4-2-1 system that guided Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title and kept them unbeaten in the league that campaign.
The stats prove that Cucurella is better defensively in terms of tackles and interceptions, but Cambiaso is much better moving forward. As a left-back, Cucurella is better. As a wing-back, Cambiaso is the pick.
Who would you sign to replace Marc Cucurella? 🫵
Andrea Cambiaso is the latest player to be linked.
Chelsea could sign a better option and make a profit
Selling Cucurella is not ideal for Chelsea. But if they do end up cashing in on him, the former Brighton star could get a figure north of £50m. With Cambiaso available at less than that, it feels like a no-brainer.
The one big risk is whether Cambiaso can translate his skills from Serie A to the Premier League. But the Italian league is rapidly improving, and there are many examples of Serie A players starring in England.
If Cambiaso is truly a viable option and Chelsea receive offers north of £50m for Cucurella, then it is a signing that not only earns a profit but suits Alonso and his new era as Chelsea manager.
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