News Focus
- Real Madrid agree €60m package deal with Chelsea for left-back Marc Cucurella
- Spain international will finalise transfer after World Cup duty this summer
- Move follows Cucurella’s public criticism of Chelsea hierarchy in March
- Bernabéu club also targeting Chelsea teammate Enzo Fernández
- José Mourinho overseeing squad revamp after two trophyless campaigns
Spanish giants Real Madrid have struck a deal to bring Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella to the Bernabéu. The transfer package is worth up to €60 million (approximately £52 million), which includes an initial fee of €55 million plus €5 million in add-ons.
The 27-year-old Spain international is currently with his national team preparing for a World Cup clash against Cape Verde. His future at Stamford Bridge became uncertain after he criticised the club’s leadership during the March international break. He blamed the team’s “inexperience” following a heavy defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, and he expressed concerns about the sacking of manager Enzo Maresca.
A return to his home country has been likely for some time. The left-back will end his four-year spell in English football once the summer tournament concludes. Chelsea view this as the perfect moment to sell, especially after the defender’s form dipped following the Christmas period. The Blues are also encouraged by the performances of Jorrel Hato, the 20-year-old Netherlands defender who has been covering for Cucurella.
Real Madrid are rebuilding their squad after two seasons without silverware. Under new manager José Mourinho, they have acted quickly in the transfer market. They have already secured deals for Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries, former Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté, and ex-Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva on a free transfer.
The Spanish club might not be finished with Chelsea yet. They could make a move for midfielder Enzo Fernández, who also spoke out against the board recently. The Argentine has openly stated his desire to play for Madrid, though Chelsea will demand over £100 million for the former Benfica star. While the west London club do not need to sell urgently, Fernández is not considered as essential as Cole Palmer or Moisés Caicedo. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso will have a major say in any future transfer decisions.