Mauricio Pochettino Set to Trim Chelsea Squad
Mauricio Pochettino is set to trim his Chelsea squad when he takes over the reins at Stamford Bridge next month. The former Tottenham Hotspur manager is reportedly prepared to sell Marc Cucurella amid new interest from Newcastle United.
Chelsea’s Spending Spree
Chelsea’s American owners have spent almost £600m on new signings and intend to splash more cash this summer as they look to bring Moises Caicedo and Nicolas Jackson – among others – to west London. A number of players are expected to leave Stamford Bridge to compensate for the new arrivals and Pochettino is prepared to lose Cucurella, according to the Daily Mirror.
Marc Cucurella Attracting Interest
Eyebrows were raised when Chelsea spent more than £60m on the Brighton left-back this time last year and the deal looked even more questionable as the Spaniard struggled last season. Despite his stock falling at Stamford Bridge, Cucurella still has admirers in the Premier League and is attracting interest from Newcastle.
Newcastle’s Summer Transfer Plans
Newcastle enjoyed a superb 2022-23 campaign, finishing fourth and booking their place in next season’s Champions League. As a result, Eddie Howe wants to welcome a number of new signings to St James’ Park, including a left-back having been heavily linked with a move for Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney. Cucurella has emerged as another option but Newcastle only want to pay around £30m for the 24-year-old, who was bought for twice as much 12 months ago.
Conclusion
It remains to be seen if Newcastle will make a move for Cucurella, but it is clear that Mauricio Pochettino is keen to trim his Chelsea squad ahead of the 2021-22 season. With Chelsea set to make more signings this summer, some players will have to be sold in order to balance the books and Cucurella could be one of those who departs Stamford Bridge.