Xabi Alonso has Chelsea's perfect Marc Cucurella replacement right under his nose

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso should hand Jorrel Hato the chance to replace Marc Cucurella at left back next season.

Upon reporting that Real Madrid have announced the signing of Cucurella, The Guardian state that Chelsea were "encouraged" by Hato's performances last season, and view this as the "right time" to sell the Spaniard.

Hato was signed as back-up to Cucurella last summer, but the 20-year-old mainly featured at centre-back in his debut campaign.

Chelsea's transfer strategy of signing young talent to sell on for a profit could work with Hato, who became the third-youngest ever player to debut for Ajax in 2023.

Alonso could have a limited transfer budget this summer compared to his predecessors, and may have to put trust in the players currently at his disposal.

The former Real Madrid boss is set to have more influence on transfer matters at Chelsea, but funds could be used elsewhere other than the left-back position.

Whilst Hato was playing out of position in the Premier League for much of the season, the Dutchman's stats provide encouragement that he could be a long-term replacement for Cucurella.

Hato made more successful tackles, clearances, headed clearances, interceptions and won possession more times in the final third per 90 minutes than Cucurella in the Premier League this season.

The Dutchman also made more accurate passes, and completed more successful dribbles than Cucurella.

With Chelsea not in European competition next season, it would be an ideal moment for Hato to prove his worth and begin to fulfil his potential at Stamford Bridge.

In other transfer news at Chelsea, sources have told Football Insider, that Alonso has decided that he will not be selling Enzo Fernandez this summer.

Alonso may not need to sign another left back this summer as Chelsea have already completed the signing of Denner Evangelista.

Chelsea agreed the deal in March, with the 18-year-old costing around £11million to bring from Brazilian club Corinthians.

Blues fans may have high expectations given that his cousin is Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes.

Having signed a long-term contract until 2032, Chelsea also have high hopes that Denner can make his mark in the first team.