Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea outcast Marc Cucurella on a loan-to-buy deal before the closure of the summer transfer window.
Newcastle United are planning to make a move for Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella this summer as they look to strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad. That’s according to Daily Telegraph, which says the Magpies are “looking to sign a left-back on loan”. And the two names at the top of their wish list are Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney and Cucurella.
The versatile 25-year-old only joined the Blues from Brighton & Hove Albion last summer in a whopping £60 million deal. But he failed to live up to the price tag in his opening season in west London as the Blues ended 12th in the Premier League table, their worst-ever finish in the last three decades or so.
He missed the final seven games of last season due to injury while competing for a starting berth at left-back alongside Ben Chilwell. He was even used at centre-back in a back-three formation on occasions in order to fit him into the line-up.
Chelsea are currently well-stocked at left-back. Chilwell is the first choice. Meanwhile, Lewis Hall made quite an impression with his performances during the latter stages of last season, although he is now closing in on a loan move to Crystal Palace.
Ian Maatsen has also returned to the Bridge following an impressive loan spell with Burnley, and he even featured against Liverpool on the opening day. Pochettino heavily relied on the 21-year-old in pre-season, even playing him in a more advanced role.
With the attributes to operate as a full-back, winger, or number 10, everything is currently hinting towards Maatsen having a breakthrough campaign in the first-team this season. So the Blues can afford to lose Cucurella in the hope they can recoup some of their initial £60 million investment in the Spaniard, with Newcastle United interested in his services.
The Magpies believe both players would be keen to join them, with Champions League football on offer. It is understood Newcastle will offer the Blues a small loan fee for Cucurella and an option or obligation to buy, while they would be happy to cover the defender’s wages.
The Toon’s interest in the Spanish international is believed to be derived from sporting director Dan Ashworth, who was responsible for Cucurella’s transfer from Getafe to Brighton & Hove Albion when he was technical director at the Amex Stadium.
Ashworth is interested in signing Cucurella again, while Eddie Howe also admires his qualities. The 25-year-old is undoubtedly a talented player when brimming with confidence at his best, and a move to Newcastle could help revitalise his career.
The Chelsea wide man gets a fresh start in the Premier League under a manager who is a fantastic coach like Howe, who has brought the best out of the current Newcastle squad. Meanwhile, Newcastle get some much-needed depth and quality in defence. Chelsea would still need some persuading, with Newcastle being a genuine top-four rival.
