Chelsea Told They Could Sign A “Fantastic Replacement” For Marc Cucurella
Ex-Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips believes his former club should seriously consider re-signing Lewis Hall.
Speaking to Jackpot City Casino (quotes via Metro), Wright-Phillips said the departure of Marc Cucurella is a “massive loss” but Hall would be the ideal candidate to fill the void:
“Lewis Hall would be a fantastic replacement for Chelsea. I think he’s a great player. I was one of the ones who was shocked that he wasn’t playing in the World Cup, to be honest with you.”
“But that will give him a little bit of grit between the teeth as well. As long as he can stay fit, he’s got a superb career in front of him.”
What are the chances of Hall returning to Stamford Bridge?
Newcastle are believed to be very reluctant to offload the left-back, and there are suggestions that they will not let him leave for less than £80m, having signed him on a permanent basis from Chelsea for £35m (including add-ons) two years ago.
There is also thought to be interest from Manchester United, so that would likely lead to the Magpies standing firm on their asking price, considering there is competition for Hall’s signature.
Who are Chelsea looking to sign as Cucurella’s replacement
Pep Chavarria is reportedly the priority target, but the Blues have had issues agreeing a fee with Rayo Vallecano. The La Liga side are currently holding out for his release clause, which is worth €50m (£43m).
So far, the Blues have only made a bid amounting to half that amount, so the chances of a breakthrough in negotiations look rather slim at the moment, unless there is a massive climbdown from Rayo.
Alternatives to both Chavarria and Hall could be considered. One of Xabi Alonso’s former players at Real Madrid, Alvaro Carreras, has also been mentioned as a potential target in the Spanish press.
