Why Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag wants to sign Marc Cucurella despite Chelsea woes

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has targeted Chelsea’s out-of-favour defender Marc Cucurella to fill the void at left-back. Here’s why.

United are exploring the possibility of signing a left-back in the last week of the transfer window to cover for Luke Shaw, who sustained a muscle problem against Tottenham that could keep the 28-year-old out until November.

It has been widely reported that Chelsea’s Cucurella, Tottenham’s Sergio Reguilón and Barcelona’s Marcos Alonso are all on Erik ten Hag’s shortlist as Shaw replacements.

As per the Guardian, any deal for the three, all fringe players at their respective clubs, would be on a temporary basis.

Indeed, Ten Hag’s other left-back option Tyrell Malacia, is also out for a prolonged period with injury.

For United’s 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest Ten Hag fielded Diogo Dalot at left-back, however, United are seeking a specialist in that position. Dalot’s recognised position is right-back.

United interest in Cucurella in particular has raised eyebrows among certain contingents of the United faithful after the Spaniard endured a disappointing first season at Stamford Bridge last term.

However, according to Gerrard Romero via Utddistrict, Ten Hag is a long-time admirer of Cucurella.

He and his staff allegedly have fond memories of the 25-year-old since the Dutchman’s former side, Ajax, took on Getafe in the Europa League in February 2020.

The Spanish outfit knocked out Ajax, who a season prior had been Champions League semi-finalists, 3-2 on aggregate, with Cucurella impressing across both games in the tie.

According to Fabrizio Romano on his YouTube channel, United have made direct contact with Chelsea to inquire about the conditions of a possible loan deal.

But while the Blues have confirmed they are open to allowing Cucurella to leave the club on loan, the move will allegedly not be “that easy” to finalise, due to conditions on the duration of the loan.

Moreover, United would also reportedly need to have internal discussions regarding how much they are willing to invest in the left-back position.