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Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has publicly told reported Manchester United target Ben Chilwell that he is not in his plans and would be best served by leaving in search of playing opportunities elsewhere.
United could look to reinforce the left-back position before transfer deadline day, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia currently injured.
A few days ago, United confirmed that Shaw will miss up to a month of Premier League action as he recovers from a calf problem picked up during pre-season.
Meanwhile, Malacia is still working to get back to match fitness following a lengthy period on the sidelines that saw him miss the entire 2023/24 campaign.
During United’s opening Premier League clash against Fulham on Friday night, Erik ten Hag deployed Diogo Dalot at left-back, with new signing Noussair Mazraoui starting on the opposite flank.
A report covered by The Peoples Person late last month relayed that United were considering a swoop for Chelsea’s Chilwell.
It was stated that the Englishman was on the “list of potential targets” at Old Trafford with his future with the Blues firmly in doubt.
Chilwell played just 64 minutes throughout Chelsea’s pre-season and was an unused substitute in last weekend’s 1-1 friendly draw against Inter Milan.
Chelsea manager Maresca spoke to the media (via Fabrizio Romano) and told Chilwell in no uncertain terms that he is free to depart Stamford Bridge in the coming days.
Maresca remarked about the full-back, “It’s probably better he goes and leaves and finds minutes.”
“I love the way he is, the problem is that he is struggling to find the right position with us…”
🚨🔵 Ben Chilwell, set to leave Chelsea as Maresca has confirmed: “It’s probably better he goes and leaves and finds minutes”.
“I love the way he is, the problem is that he is struggling to find the right position with us…”. pic.twitter.com/pd6lsHIKh0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 16, 2024
Chilwell is a seasoned Premier League veteran with over 150 appearances in the top flight and 21 caps under his belt.
He would be an astute addition to Ten Hag’s ranks for the right price and if he can remain fit. Much like Shaw, Chilwell’s injury record has been well-documented. He missed 35 games last term due to various issues.
If United are indeed keen on pushing forward with their interest in Chilwell, then Maresca’s words will certainly embolden them in their bid.
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