Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has urged new head coach Xabi Alonso to consider a move for Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall, suggesting the England international could be an ideal long-term replacement for Marc Cucurella.
Reports linking Hall with a return to Stamford Bridge have emerged amid ongoing speculation over Chelsea’s defensive plans ahead of the new season. Hasselbaink believes the academy graduate possesses the quality, versatility and familiarity with the club to thrive if an opportunity arose.
Hall came through Chelsea’s youth system and made his senior breakthrough before joining Newcastle, initially on loan, in a deal that later became permanent. Since moving to St James’ Park, he continued his development, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most promising young full-backs with composed displays on both sides of the pitch.
Speaking about Chelsea’s options at left-back, Hasselbaink reportedly argued that Hall has all the attributes required to succeed under Alonso’s tactical approach. The Dutchman is said to view the youngster as a player capable of contributing both defensively and in possession, qualities that have become increasingly important in modern full-back roles.
Asked whether he would ‘prefer’ CHELSEA to target Hall, who is valued at around £60m, Jimmy-Floyd Hasselbaink told 10bet: ‘Yeah, I would.
‘Look, I think with Marc Cucurella leaving, they will need to bring somebody in, but they also have Jorrel Hato who can play left-back and finished the season really strongly and really well.
‘But Lewis Hall has been unlucky not to be part of this England World Cup squad – he’s done really well at Newcastle.
‘He used to be at Chelsea, though, so I don’t know how the club would feel about buying their own player back – most of the time, that’s a bit of an issue psychologically.
‘I think they can go two ways: they can keep Hato as the first-choice left-back and get a younger lad in as backup, or they look at Hall.
‘But if Lewis Hall comes, he’s going to want to come to play, isn’t he? Because he’s playing regularly at Newcastle. So then it becomes a real battle.
‘But I do like Lewis; I think he’s done exceptionally well. He’s really worked on himself, improved, and he’s a very good player.’
Newcastle, however, are unlikely to entertain offers easily. Hall has become an important member of Eddie Howe’s squad and is regarded as one of the club’s brightest young talents. The Magpies see the defender as a key part of their long-term project and would be expected to demand a substantial transfer fee if interest were to materialise.
CHELSEA have already been linked with several defensive targets as the club looks to balance immediate success with investing in emerging talent. Hall’s continued progress has only increased his reputation, with his technical ability, attacking instincts and maturity earning praise from pundits and supporters alike
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