Marc Cucurella remains a key player Chelsea are determined to keep this summer. However, the Spaniard has refused to rule out a return to Barcelona, with just two years left on his contract at Stamford Bridge. That uncertainty has forced the club to identify clear replacements.
According to The Chelsea Chronicle, Chelsea have already drawn up a shortlist of four left-
backs they are seriously considering should Cucurella depart. Strikingly, two of those targets are currently Arsenal’s most promising young defensive weapons.
Myles Lewis-Skelly Chelsea have been actively pursuing the 19-year-old Arsenal academy graduate. Lewis-Skelly has been frustrated by limited playing time this season, making just one Premier League start. With his contract situation and lack of minutes, he could be open to a move across London in the summer.
Riccardo Calafiori The Italian international has also been heavily linked with a switch to Chelsea. While Mikel Arteta has primarily deployed him at left-back this season, Chelsea view Calafiori as a centre-back option who can also cover the left flank. His versatility and quality make him a prime target if Cucurella leaves.
Nico O’Reilly The Manchester City academy product has been one of the standout left-backs in the Premier League this campaign. Although City are unlikely to sell him to a direct rival — especially after losing Cole Palmer — Chelsea are still expected to test their resolve with a bid. The move carries the clear fingerprints of Chelsea’s recruitment strategist Joe Shields, who has previously orchestrated deals for ex-City talents like Palmer, Liam Delap, and Romeo Lavia.
Jorrel Hato If signing one of the above proves too difficult, Chelsea are prepared to turn to their own ranks. The highly-rated Dutch youngster Jorrel Hato has impressed significantly under Liam Rosenior and is seen as a ready-made internal solution. While not the ideal long-term fix, he would provide a solid and cost-effective option.
Chelsea’s recruitment team appears to have done its homework early. Whether Cucurella stays or goes, the club has multiple pathways mapped out — with Arsenal’s young stars Lewis-Skelly and Calafiori sitting at the very top of their wishlist.