Marc Cucurella might have escaped a Chelsea ban, unlike his teammate Enzo Fernandez, but the left-back has certainly sparked questions over his future. Maxi Araujo could be his replacement.
Cucurella’s comments regarding a move to Barcelona were public, as was his criticism of the Chelsea board. Yet, the left-back escaped a ban, with Cucurella seemingly apologetic behind the Chelsea scenes.
Whether that has affected his future is unclear as things stand. Cucurella will turn 28 this summer and enter the final two years of his contract. The Blues might begin to consider selling their £60m star anyway.
Say Chelsea can only strengthen in one position this summer, which ONE would you choose?👀
Chelsea v Port Vale - Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final
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Liam Twomey doesn’t think it will change Chelsea’s stance, but it could certainly tempt Barcelona. If he goes, Chelsea will have to find a replacement and recent reports suggest Sporting Lisbon’s Maxi Araujo.
How much Sporting Lisbon want for Maxi Araujo
It has not been long since Chelsea transferred north of £60m to Sporting Lisbon for duo Dario Essugo and Geovany Quenda. The latter remains at Sporting Lisbon on loan until the end of the season, with Araujo.
Araujo, now 26, starred against Arsenal as Sporting came close to getting a draw against The Gunners this week. But the 28-time Uruguay star was on the losing side, as Kai Havertz scored an injury-time winner.
Sporting Clube de Portugal v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Quarter-Final First Leg
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Chelsea and Tottenham scouts were in attendance and are believed to have been impressed by Araujo’s display for the Portuguese giants. A Bola also say Arsenal like him, and want around £35m for Araujo.
Indeed, the former Toluca and Puebla star has a release clause in his contract believed to be worth around £70m for his services. But Sporting are realistic, and are happy to cash in for less than the £40m mark.
Araujo has been excellent for Sporting ever since arriving at the Portuguese side in the summer of 2024. Remarkably, the defender has had a hand in 22 goals for Sporting, clocking up 83 games in two seasons.
Who would you sign to replace Marc Cucurella?
He hasn't ruled out a Chelsea exit…
Marc Cucurella discussing his future
This season, Araujo has reached new heights. According to another report from A Bola, Araujo was the best player on the pitch against Arsenal. He didn’t deserve to be on the losing side with scouts watching.
Chelsea do have other options on the left of their defence, with Malo Gusto able to play there. Jorrel Hato is arguably the most-improved player at Chelsea currently, but Araujo would certainly start for Chelsea.
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