Chelsea have reached an agreement with Real Madrid for the transfer of Marc Cucurella, with the Spain defender set to move to the La Liga side after the World Cup. The deal is worth up to £51.7 million, with an initial fee of £47.4 million and approximately £4.3 million in add-ons.
Transfer Details
The paperwork is yet to be formally completed, but the deal is expected to be finalized within the week, with Cucurella making the move following the World Cup. Chelsea were not actively seeking to offload the defender, but Cucurella was receptive to the right opportunity and eager to leave Stamford Bridge.
The full-back had only signed a new contract with the Blues last summer and still has three years remaining on it. Atletico Madrid had also been interested in the Spain international, but their La Liga rivals have beaten them to the 27-year-old's signature.
Cucurella's Chelsea Career
Cucurella has made 150 appearances since joining Chelsea in 2022 in a £63 million deal from Brighton and Hove Albion. He won the Conference League and Club World Cup during his time with the Blues and is currently on international duty with Spain at the World Cup.
Xabi Alonso Comments
The news arrives shortly after Cucurella admitted he had been inspired by Xabi Alonso's arrival at Chelsea. When asked about the new manager's project, the full-back replied: Yes. I've spoken with him and he inspired a lot of confidence in me. I've also spoken with Alejandro Grimaldo and Borja Iglesias, who have worked with him, and they spoke very highly of him. The project seems very interesting.
Nevertheless, Cucurella remained guarded regarding earlier transfer rumours, telling Marca: I'm not reading much and I'm not paying much attention. My agents already know they don't have to tell me anything. I'm very happy where I am, and so is my family. Whatever happens, happens. Right now, I'm focused on the World Cup and enjoying this experience.
The defender will now forfeit the opportunity to work alongside Alonso as he departs for the manager's previous employer. Alonso left Real Madrid by mutual agreement in January, a day after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa final.
