Chelsea‘s defensive rebuild has become one of the club’s biggest priorities following Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid.
The Spain international established himself as a key player at Stamford Bridge and leaves behind a significant gap in the squad.
Replacing a player of his quality was always going to be a major challenge for Chelsea’s recruitment team.
As a result, several left-backs have been linked with the Blues since then.
One of the most prominent names is Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall.
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The former Chelsea academy graduate has continued his development impressively since leaving west London and is now regarded as one of the Premier League’s brightest young full-backs.
Hall was very unlucky to miss out on a place in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, and even more unfortunate not to be called up to replace the now-injured Tino Livramento.
A return to Stamford Bridge has inevitably been discussed following Cucurella’s departure.
Another player generating some attention is Real Madrid’s Alvaro Carreras.
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The Blues have been contacted by intermediaries.
Recent reports have suggested Chelsea have already carried out checks on the Spanish defender who was once on the books at Man United, as they assess potential solutions on the left side of defence.
With Xabi Alonso beginning work as Chelsea manager, it is easy to see why the club would be attracted to him, given the Spaniard publicly praised Carreras during their time together at the Bernabeu.
The club also continue to monitor talented young players across Europe, with Atalanta sensation Marco Palestra now reportedly on their radar.
Chelsea open ‘preliminary talks’ with Marco Palestra
According to reports from Sky Italia, as relayed by Football Italia, Chelsea have opened ‘preliminary talks’ with the representatives of Palestra amid their search for full-backs.
The 21-year-old is regarded as one of the most promising young defenders currently emerging from Italian football, with Atalanta valuing him at more than £43 million.
Although naturally a right-sided player, his versatility and athleticism have attracted attention from several clubs around Europe, and Chelsea are believed to be among those exploring the possibility of a move.
Sky claim that initial contact has already taken place between the player’s camp and the London club, but the discussions are understood to be exploratory rather than advanced.
Nevertheless, the fact Chelsea have moved to establish communication demonstrates their level of interest.
Palestra has earned major praise after bursting on to the scene on loan at Cagliari, with Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig calling him a ‘complete’ full-back already.
A number of clubs have monitored his development and there is a growing belief that he could eventually become a regular at the highest level.
Chelsea are not the only Premier League side credited with interest, with Liverpool also interested in the defender, and there is also competition from Man City.
Palestra’s ability to operate in multiple defensive roles would appeal to Alonso, especially after Cucurella’s exit.
The versatile defender, who can also play on the right-wing and in left midfield, bagged four assists and a goal in 37 Serie A appearances for Cagliari across 25/26.
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They’ve made checks on the player.
