According to Graeme Bailey, Manchester United are interested in signing Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell this summer. However, it’s still unclear whether both parties will prefer cracking a loan deal or swapping two or more players.
Ben Chilwell’s injury concerns
After developing his initial game at Leicester City, Ben Chilwell signed for Chelsea in the summer of 2020. As provided with chances, he managed to establish himself as a reliable name on the team sheet. However, things have taken a major turn in recent years.
Chilwell’s continued injuries have disrupted his position in the squad. He featured in only 21 games last season, resulting in no goal or assist. He averaged 1.4 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, and 1.6 clearances per game (stats via whoscored).
The Englishman is equally good in both aspects of the game. He provides solidity in the backline and also joins the offensive part. He is known for his pace, high work rate, ball-playing ability, and putting good crosses into the box.
Jadon Sancho can go out to Chelsea
Manchester United’s interest in Ben Chilwell is surprising but understandable. Though they have brought Noussair Mazraoui this summer, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia continue to struggle with injuries. Both have serious fitness issues and it’s hard to rely upon them.
In their absence last season, Erik Ten Hag was forced to play Diogo Dalot as the left-back. But it’s not an appropriate thing to do since Dalot offers a lot on the right side. Hence, it makes sense to sign another cover before the window closes.
Chilwell’s experience and qualities might come in handy going forward in this campaign. To sign him, Manchester United can either opt for a loan or offer a player for swap. The first name that comes in that context is Jadon Sancho, who is no longer in the plans of the club with Chelsea being a serious buyer.
