Chelsea may be forced into the transfer market for a new left-back this summer, with Marcos Alonso looking increasingly likely to leave the club. The 31-year-old has just over 12 months remaining on his contract with the Blues and looks set to call time on his almost six-year stay at the club at the end of the season.
Alonso has been a constant figure in Chelsea's team since the turn of the year, with Ben Chilwell set to miss the remainder of the season through injury. Thomas Tuchel has shown trust in Alonso despite recalling Kenedy from his loan spell. Alonso was taken off at half-time in the Blues' 2-2 draw with Wolves on Saturday, though, with Saul Niguez coming on and playing in an unorthodox left wing-back role for him.
Numerous reports are claiming Alonso is keen to leave Chelsea this summer. The left-back is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract with the Blues and Barcelona are reportedly interested in the Spaniard's services.
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Emerson Palmieri is currently on loan at Lyon, and the Italy international has impressed during his spell in France. He could be an option to play back-up to Chilwell next season when the England defender finally returns to action. Another option is Ian Maatsen. He spent this season on loan at Championship side Coventry and passed the eye test, winning the Young Player Of The Year award at the weekend.
There are, however, several options around Europe that Chelsea could pursue if a new left-back is indeed needed. Todd Boehly could be a busy man this summer if he does indeed complete the takeover of the club as expected. football.london takes a look at two signings Chelsea could make should Alonso depart Stamford Bridge at the end of the season...
Alejandro Grimaldo
Grimaldo has just over one year remaining on his contract with Benfica and is being strongly linked with a move away from the Portuguese club this summer. The 26-year-old has had another impressive season for the Eagles, meaning there could be plenty of potential suitors this summer.
The Spaniard is very strong when it comes to crossing the ball in, as well as passing the ball. Grimaldo's dribbling is strong as he is usually difficult to get the ball off. Like Alonso, the left-back is also strong when it comes to taking free-kicks. In 27 matches in Liga NOS this season, Grimaldo has been directly involved in 10 goals - scoring five and assisting the same amount.
Marc Cucurella
Cucurella has been outstanding in his debut season in the Premier League for Brighton. The 23-year-old, while only registering one assist and scoring a single goal in the Premier League, has been very impressive on the left-hand side for the Seagulls.
GOAL reported in February that Chelsea has emerged as a target for the left wing-back spot. With Alonso looking set to leave the club, the Brighton star could be a viable option for the Blues in the summer transfer window.
Cucurella, this season in the Premier League, is in the top five players to complete passes in the final third. He's also in the top five for crosses. The Spaniard's offensive play is superb and could be a major upgrade on Alonso.
