Chelsea’s Left-Back Hunt: Scouting for Summer Transfer Targets
Chelsea is gearing up for a major rebuild at the end of the season, with reports suggesting that up to 15 players could be leaving Stamford Bridge. One area of focus for the Blues is the left-back position, with the club reportedly monitoring several ‘talented’ options ahead of the summer transfer window.
Among the left-backs being scouted by Chelsea is AFC Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, who has impressed in his debut Premier League season. The 20-year-old Hungarian international has made 26 appearances for Bournemouth and has caught the eye of Chelsea’s recruitment team.
However, Chelsea may face competition from Manchester United for Kerkez’s signature, as both clubs are in the market for a new left-back. The Blues are also looking to offload Marc Cucurella to a team in the Saudi Pro League, while Ian Maatsen, currently on loan at Borussia Dortmund, could also be on his way out.
Despite having Ben Chilwell in their ranks, injuries have derailed his season, making a new left-back a priority for Chelsea. With United also in the hunt for defensive reinforcements, it could lead to a battle between the two clubs over Kerkez or other potential targets.
Bournemouth paid around £15.5m to bring Kerkez from AZ Alkmaar last summer, and they would expect to make a significant profit on the young talent if he were to move to a bigger club. With both Chelsea and United looking to strengthen their left-back options, the race for Kerkez’s signature could heat up in the coming months.