According to The Guardian, Chelsea are planning to offload Ian Maatsen and Marc Cucurella during the summer transfer window, with KAA Gent’s Archie Brown emerging as a potential backup left-back option.
Cucurella’s performances have been underwhelming, and he is currently sidelined due to injury after featuring in just 12 games this season. Meanwhile, Maatsen is on loan at Borussia Dortmund and could also depart permanently.
Additionally, young Lewis Hall is likely to complete his move to Newcastle United permanently. With these departures in mind, Chelsea are in the market for a backup to Ben Chilwell, and Brown has caught their attention.
The 21-year-old initially played as a left winger before transitioning to left-back at Swiss club Lausanne. His impressive displays prompted Gent to secure his services, and now he could be heading to the Premier League.
In addition to Chelsea, West Ham United have also shown interest in Brown. With Emerson currently occupying the starting left-back role for the Hammers, Brown could provide valuable depth, especially considering Aaron Cresswell’s age at 34.
Brown is under contract with Gent until the conclusion of the 2027-28 season and is valued at around £15 million, according to The Guardian’s report.
