According to a report from the Daily Mail, Manchester United is surprisingly eyeing Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell as a potential transfer target this summer.
Chilwell, who joined Chelsea from Leicester City in 2020, was instrumental in their Champions League victory during his first season. Despite being sidelined by injuries over the past two years, the England international has maintained his reputation as one of the Premier League's top left-backs. He has accumulated 106 appearances for Chelsea, but his consistent injury setbacks have raised concerns regarding his future at the club.
Reports suggest that Manchester United is keen on bolstering their left-back options due to Tyrell Malacia's season-long injury and the recurring fitness issues of Luke Shaw. Chilwell's name has surfaced among the potential candidates identified by INEOS, the ownership group at Old Trafford, to provide competition and cover for Shaw
Chilwell’s form has dipped since his initial success at Chelsea, largely due to a cruciate ligament injury in November 2021 during a match against Manchester United. Subsequent hamstring and knee issues have further limited his playtime, resulting in only 21 appearances last season. These fitness struggles led to his omission from England's squad for the 2024 European Championships, despite participating in pre-tournament friendlies.
Under Chelsea's new head coach Enzo Maresca, Chilwell's role seems uncertain. Maresca favors full-backs who can transition into midfield, a style that does not align well with Chilwell's traditional left-back play. Conversely, teammate Marc Cucurella, who has excelled in recent European competitions, fits this tactical requirement better and could be preferred over Chilwell..