Chelsea’s full-back, Marc Cucurella, is reportedly considering a departure from the club in January with the aim of securing regular playing opportunities.

Cucurella has struggled to hit top form since his move to Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in a £62 million transfer last summer. During the previous season, the 25-year-old made appearances in 33 competitive matches, but his performances faced criticism from some quarters.

Since Mauricio Pochettino’s arrival over the summer, Cucurella appears to have slipped down the pecking order, with players like Ben Chilwell, Levi Colwill, and Ian Maatsen seemingly ahead of him.

As a result, Cucurella has yet to make an appearance in the Premier League this season, with his sole outing coming in the 2-1 EFL Cup victory against AFC Wimbledon last month.

Due to his lack of opportunities, Manchester United made a loan bid for Cucurella in the final days of the summer transfer window. However, his appearance in the EFL Cup, which made him cup-tied, played a role in Manchester United opting to abandon their pursuit and focus on securing the loan signing of Sergio Reguilon from Tottenham Hotspur.

While a summer move didn’t materialize, the versatile defender still faces an uncertain future at Stamford Bridge.

According to The Sun, Cucurella is prepared to leave the club in the January transfer window unless he starts receiving regular playing time.

Cucurella is expected to start in Wednesday’s home match against his former club Brighton in the third round of the EFL Cup. However, he is eager for more Premier League minutes and is ready to explore other opportunities if he doesn’t receive increased first-team action.

The report suggests that despite holding discussions with Pochettino about his future, Cucurella remains uncertain about the amount of game time he will receive this season.

While he is reportedly content in London, the Chelsea defender would consider a return to Spain if it means securing regular playing opportunities.