Chelsea Football Club have reportedly drawn up a three-man shortlist as they prepare for the possible departure of Spanish left-back Marc Cucurella Saseta ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Blues are understood to be assessing potential replacements internally as uncertainty continues to grow around the defender’s long-term future at Stamford Bridge. While no final decision has been made, Chelsea recruitment officials are already exploring alternatives should an exit materialise.
Marc Cucurella, who joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022, has endured a mixed spell in West London, featuring regularly across competitions but struggling at times to fully cement his status as an undisputed first-choice left-back.
Reports suggest that interest from several European clubs could influence Chelsea’s stance, depending on the size and structure of any potential offers during the summer window.
Among the players being monitored, Bayer Leverkusen defender Alejandro “Álex” Grimaldo García is understood to be a leading candidate. The Spanish full-back has impressed in the Bundesliga with his attacking contributions, creativity from deep areas, and consistent delivery in the final third.
Grimaldo’s strong relationship with incoming Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso is also seen as a key factor, having previously worked together during their highly successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen. Alonso’s tactical familiarity with the player could play a significant role in any potential pursuit.
Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso is also on Chelsea’s radar, with the Italian international earning praise for his versatility, defensive awareness, and ability to operate effectively in both attacking and defensive transitions.
Cambiaso’s adaptability across multiple systems has reportedly made him an attractive option for Chelsea as the club continues to reshape its squad with more tactically flexible players.
The third name on the shortlist is Eintracht Frankfurt’s Nathaniel Christopher Brown, a young German full-back who has attracted attention for his rapid development in the Bundesliga.
Chelsea scouts are believed to be closely monitoring his progress, viewing him as a long-term investment who could be developed into a key squad member over time.
The shortlist reflects Chelsea’s broader recruitment strategy, which continues to focus on young, high-potential players capable of adapting to different tactical demands under the club’s evolving project.
Cucurella’s future is expected to depend on negotiations in the coming months, with no formal decision yet taken regarding his exit or continuation at Stamford Bridge.
However, speculation is likely to intensify as the transfer window approaches, especially if clubs from Spain or other top European leagues make concrete moves for the defender.
Chelsea are expected to make a final assessment of their left-back position at the end of the season as part of their wider squad restructuring plans.
Source: Newspyramid.com
