Marcos Alonso could be leaving Stamford Bridge this summer as Thomas Tuchel prepares for a squad overhaul. Whilst Chelsea fans are keen on the departure of their left-back, the question now is, who will they sign to replace him? You also have to wonder whether this is a smart idea for the Blues or not.
The Spaniard first joined the club in 2016, during the Antonio Conte reign. He was quite the success in his first season, excelling as a left wing-back for the most part. There's no denying that Alonso has a keen eye for goal which has made up for questionable defensive attributes. But Thomas Tuchel may be forced to search for new left-back options as the Spaniard's contract is set to run out in 2023.
According to the Mirror, Barcelona are likely to sign Alonso despite interest from several clubs in both Spain and England. The Catalans are in the process of negotiations with Alonso's representatives after 'receiving encouragement'. That leaves Chelsea in quite a pickle.
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Who can Chelsea replace Alonso with?
At the moment, there are not many options for Chelsea to choose from for Marcos Alonso's replacement. They could go with their in-house academy/loanee reinforcements or they can search the market. There are three options that spring to mind as the summer transfer window approaches. If Chelsea are to have a successful window, they will need to cut costs where they can. Ben Chilwell will return next season and the Blues will have to take this into consideration when choosing Alonso's successor.
Ian Maatsen.
Chelsea fans have been waxing lyrical about Maatsen since Ben Chilwell's injury occurred back in November. The young Dutch international has been on loan to Coventry City all season playing as a left wing-back. There are two reasons as to why Thomas Tuchel should consider easing him into the first team. The first is that he has been playing in a five at the back system already. The Blues have become so accustomed to this system that anyone who has the experience as a wing-back could make a great head start. The second reason being that he will be hungry to learn and could help with Chilwell's recovery back into the squad. No player would like to return to the team after dealing with a long term injury, just to find out they could be replaced.
Sergino Dest.
Speaking of being replaced, Sergino Dest could be the man to compete with Ben Chilwell next season. The 21-year-old American is an attacking threat, similar to what Alonso brings to the table. Tuchel has relied upon the attacking threat of his wing-backs for the better part of the season and could cultivate Barcelona's young fullback the same way he had done with Chilwell.
Dest has been unfortunate during his time with Barcelona. He's suffered from injury which has stunted his time to really get involved with Xavi's team in the capacity that he would have liked. Fully fit and able to compete now, the £16.2 million valuation could turn out to be a steal if Chelsea are to go for another American asset.
Emerson.
There is also the option to stick to what we know and recall Emerson who is currently on loan with Lyon. Thomas Tuchel was ready to recall the Italian in the January transfer window in light of Chilwell's injury and Alonso's shockingly poor form. Lyon was not so keen to let go of their left-back mid-season and they rejected the Blues' request despite being offered compensation.
Tuchel was ready to have his former player returned to him in January and could well have the same wish in the summer. At least with Emerson, the Blues know exactly what type of player they are getting. A familiar face that understands the pressures that come with playing for a club like Chelsea.
