Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Chelsea defender, Ben Chilwell, in a bid to add competition at left-back alongside Luke Shaw. This position suffered last season due to the club’s injury crisis, and Ten Hag will be hoping to add more defensive cover this Summer to ensure it doesn’t happen again.
Manchester United Interested in Signing Chelsea Defender Ben Chilwell
A Position of Priority
Sami Mokbel reports that Manchester United have added Chilwell to their list of targets for the left-back position ahead of next season. The player signed a new contract in 2023 which will expire in 2027, meaning his club could still have leverage in negotiations and will be in no rush to sell.
Ten Hag will be hoping to add more cover for Shaw, following his injury-ridden campaign where he made just 15 appearances in all competitions. This position especially was deeply affected during the injury issues last term and additional defensive squad depth is certainly an area of high priority this Summer.
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However, the Chelsea fullback is in a similar position fitness-wise to his former national teammate – he only made 21 appearances last season with just 13 in the league. His lack of first-team involvement meant he was not called up to his national team for the 2024 Euros tournament.
Nonetheless, Chilwell’s quality is undeniable and he is an “experienced” member of his team. He has played a total of eight seasons in the Premier League throughout his career, and his profile was of interest to Manchester City last year as well. After signing his contract to dispel the rumours, he was also made vice-captain for the team in the 2023/24 campaign. If he can consistently manage his fitness levels for next year, he can offer good value to Manchester United.
The INEOS Project
Manchester United’s new co-owners, INEOS, have moved swiftly to kick-start their long-term project. They have confirmed a long-term contract for Ten Hag and will be adding some new faces to the backroom staff as well. Additionally, they are working towards concluding negotiations for Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt as new first-team signings. This will certainly not be the end of it though – a move for Chilwell or any other left-back could be their next priority.
