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Manchester United have reportedly submitted a proposal to Chelsea to sign left-back Marc Cucurella on an initial loan deal, but fans are bemused by the potential move.
The Athletic reports that the Red Devils are holding discussions with the Blues, and talks are ongoing. Erik ten Hag's United are making their move for the Spaniard amid injuries to left-back duo Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.
Cucurella is reportedly viewed as a good fit for Ten Hag's system and is the top choice to come in as an emergency left-back signing. The 25-year-old is yet to appear for Chelsea this season, and Ben Chilwell is Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino's preference.
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The Spanish full-back arrived at Stamford Bridge from Brighton & Hove Albion last summer for £56 million plus £7 million in add-ons. He joined off a superb debut season in England with the Seagulls, winning the club's Player of the Year.
However, Cucurella's form took a dramatic dip last season with the west Londoners amid their poor campaign. He featured 33 times across competitions, providing two assists. He was unable to gel well with many wingers, including January signing Mykhailo Mudryk.
The Spanish defender's poor form stunned many, given his performances at Brighton. However, he's yet to turn a corner with the Blues, so Manchester United's interest has come as an even bigger surprise.
Ten Hag may be the coach to get Cucurella back to his best, as he did so with Marcus Rashford, who was suffering a lack of confidence. It remains to be seen if any permanent option will be included in the deal, but the left-back will be keen to reignite his career.
However, one Manchester United fan isn't excited by the prospect of Cucurella arriving:
"We are finished."
Another reckons the Stamford Bridge faithful are happy to see Cucurella depart:
"Every Chelsea fan celebrating."
Here's how Twitter reacted to reports claiming that United are in discussions with the Blues for Cucurella:
Former Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso turns down Manchester United move
According to Marca's Luis Rojo, former Chelsea left-back Marcos Alonso has decided against a move to Manchester United. The Red Devils were interested in signing him on a two-year deal from Barcelona, but he wants to see out the remaining year of his contract.
Alonso, 32, left Stamford Bridge last summer and joined the Blaugrana on a free transfer. He fared well in his debut campaign with the La Liga champions, scoring three goals in 37 games across competitions.
However, it appears that Alejandro Balde is ahead of the veteran defender in the pecking order. He has appeared just once this season, with manager Xavi seemingly preferring his compatriot.
However, Alonso prefers to stay in Catalonia rather than head to Manchester United. He became a hero of sorts at Chelsea during his six years there. He made 212 appearances, winning the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, UEFA Europa League and FA Cup.
