COMMENT: Manchester United's search for their next big star led them to Monaco's doorstep in 2015 as they looked to acquire the services of a player many believed to be the next Thierry Henry – none other than Anthony Martial.

He arrived at Old Trafford for a fee of £36m plus add-ons thus becoming the world's most expensive teenager and he quickly lived up to the hype with a stunning debut against Liverpool in which he bagged a superb solo goal.

Fast forward three years later, Martial's time at Manchester United has been marred by a common phenomenon which has prevented many youngsters before him from reaching their full potential – a lack of playing time.

The 22-year-old started just 18 games in the recently concluded Premier League season and managed to bag nine goals and register five assists.

Recent reports suggest that he's set to leave Manchester United in the summer with rivals Chelsea amongst the clubs interested in signing him.

Further reports claim that he could arrive at Stamford Bridge whilst Willian goes the other way in a swap deal with Jose Mourinho keen on signing his best performer from his final season as Chelsea boss.

Willian has endeared himself to Chelsea supporters over the past few seasons hence the club's fans would hate for him to leave and join a direct rival, but the prospect of replacing him with Anthony Martial is undoubtedly too enticing to pass on due to the latter's age and potential.

How Martial would impact Chelsea

We've seen enough of Martial over the past three years at United to know that he can be a consistent performer under the right conditions, and with the attack-minded Maurizio Sarri reportedly set to take over Chelsea, Martial could develop into a real force to be reckoned with over at Stamford Bridge.

The young French forward is known for his pace and ability to turn at high speeds which allows him to beat his opponents' defensive line with ease. He's also a hard man to shrug off the ball due to his superb balance and physicality, which makes him a nightmare for defenders to come up against.

His finishing isn't bad either, as he's capable of finding the back of the net with both feet as well as his head, although he needs to work on becoming more prolific.

Martial would introduce a new dynamic to Chelsea's attack thanks to his unpredictability and his mesmerising dribbling ability. He would pose a regular threat to opposing teams, that is as long as he features regularly of course.

How Martial would fit in at Chelsea

Martial has featured as a winger and a lone striker since he arrived at Manchester United, highlighting his versatility across the forward line.

Should Chelsea manage to swap him for Willian, naturally he'd be expected to replace the Brazilian on the right flank, a position he'd do quite well in given his skillset. But considering Chelsea's current striker woes and the potential arrival of a manager who is revered for his attacking tactical philosophy, Martial being utilised as a striker at Stamford Brdige is a real possibility.

Alvaro Morata's first season at Chelsea has been disappointing to say the least. He's failed to live up to his hefty price tag and it's hard to envisage him being trusted to be the Blues' main striker next season.

Whilst Olivier Giroud has impressed since arriving from Arsenal in January, his skillset isn't suited to a fast style of play, which leaves Michy Batshuayi as Chelsea's only viable option next season, unless of course the Blues sign Martial.

Despite being 22, Martial is no stranger to the Premier League having experienced three relatively successful seasons in the English top-flight. Hence, he won't encounter much trouble leading the line at Chelsea having already familiarised himself with the league's defensive norms.

Confidence certainly won't be an issue for the Frenchman as he's clearly confident in his ability as evidenced by his sublime displays of skill in the 2017/18 season.

Martial would be a great addition to Chelsea's ranks ahead of next season and he could provide them with the extra boost needed to secure the league title considering he'll be out to show the Premier League what he's truly capable of.