Real Madrid have reportedly struck a verbal agreement to sign Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella. The 27-year-old's future has been the subject of intense speculation, with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Real Madrid all credited with strong interest.
Cucurella's Frustrations at Chelsea
Cucurella went public with his frustrations regarding decisions at Stamford Bridge, questioning the dismissal of former manager Enzo Maresca and pointing to a lack of experience in the dressing room. Barcelona, where he rose through the academy, were initially thought to be in pole position, but Real Madrid have leapfrogged them.
Verbal Agreement Reached
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid now have a verbal agreement with all parties, including Cucurella. The full-back will complete his move once Spain's involvement at the World Cup concludes. Jose Mourinho made it clear to Madrid's hierarchy that Cucurella was his favoured target at left-back.
Chelsea are reportedly demanding a fee of around €70 million (£61 million) for Cucurella, who is believed to have handed in a transfer request.
Cucurella's Comments
Prior to Spain's World Cup opener with Cape Verde, Cucurella played down speculation about his unhappiness. He said, 'Right now I don't want to talk about that. It's true that I'm very happy where I am, my family is very happy. Whatever you do, don't drive me crazy with transfer questions.' When asked about Xabi Alonso's project at Chelsea, he added, 'Yes. I've spoken with him and he inspired a lot of confidence in me.'
More to follow.
