Marc Cucurella is set to be a man in demand this summer, with two Champions League giants interested in the Chelsea full-back. The Spain international has been at Stamford Bridge since August 2022 when he moved from Brighton for an initial £56 million. He has grown in stature at Chelsea and over the last two seasons has been a standout performer, making 54 appearances last season and 49 so far this campaign. The left-back has also become a big part of the Spain squad, winning 23 caps so far and lifting the European Championship trophy in 2024 after beating England in the final.
Barcelona and Atletico Madrid Circle
The 27-year-old has attracted the attention of two of the biggest clubs in his home country, one of which he has been a part of in the past. Sky Sports reports that his former club Barcelona are interested in re-signing Cucurella, while Atletico Madrid are also keen on signing him. Cucurella remains under contract at Chelsea until 2028 and after spending big on him in 2022, he would be a very expensive acquisition for any suitor.
Atletico's Interest Led by Mathieu Alemany
Mathieu Alemany is a long-term admirer of Cucurella and was leading Barcelona's interest in him when he was director of football at the Camp Nou from 2021-23. Alemany is now in the same role at Atletico Madrid and is pushing to bring the Spaniard to Diego Simeone's side. Spanish publication Marca reports that the Chelsea star is a priority signing for Atleti as they look to revamp their defence in the next transfer window. Marca also states that incoming Blues boss Xabi Alonso is a fan of Cucurella and will not be keen on letting him go.
Barcelona's Budget Constraints
Barcelona have budget restrictions and will focus on signing a new centre-forward as Robert Lewandowski is leaving this summer. Cucurella may fall further down their shopping list if they can make the loan signing of Joao Cancelo from Al Hilal permanent. In an eye-catching interview in March, the Chelsea defender did admit he would be very interested if Barcelona came calling. 'It would be difficult to reject [Barca],' he told a press conference while on international duty. 'And not just for me. I would have to think about my family as well. If [an offer] comes, it comes, and we will have to see what decision we would make.'
