Marc Cucurella is now reportedly ‘destined’ to leave Chelsea this summer, with Atletico Madrid now in direct contact with the Blues over a move.
Chelsea are at an interesting crossroads with Cucurella, who remains one of their most important players but is one of their oldest outfield stars.
His contract also has only two years left, and the performances of Jorrel Hato in 2026 have suggested he is ready for more minutes in the coming season.
Chelsea made a mistake getting rid of Noni Madueke! Do you agree?😠
Marc Cucurella ‘destined’ to leave Chelsea as Atletico Madrid start talks
There is strong interest in signing Cucurella from Spain, and the defender caught headlines during the last international break when he criticised how the club have been operating in recent years.
This has contributed to his stance on leaving the club, with Simon Phillips reporting that he has had a desire to leave since January, and Atletico Madrid are closing in on a deal.
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He said on his Substack: “One player we know is almost certainly destined to leave this summer is Marc Cucurella. The Spanish left back has had a desire to leave the club since January. He was upset about what happened with Enzo Maresca and also, he just feels now is the right time to move on from the club.
“Cucurella made some public comments criticising Chelsea’s project, that he’s not been happy with. With just two years left on his contract, Chelsea will facilitate a sale this summer and are already weighing up replacements, with the first choice being Lewis Hall of Newcastle.
“SPTC Sources understand that Atletico Madrid are now in contact with Cucurella and Chelsea regarding a transfer this summer.
“Cucurella also has some interest from Manchester City and would love to work under Maresca again. However, it’s always been his plan to finish his career in Spain, so a move to Atletico is also desirable for the soon to be 28-year-old. This could develop quick with all parties looking to make a move happen now.”
If Chelsea have to sell this summer, which ONE are you sacrificing?🤔
Xabi Alonso has addressed the futures of Marc Cucurella, Joao Pedro and Enzo Fernandez at Chelsea
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Xabi Alonso to be disappointed at Cucurella decision
With Cucurella’s mind seeming to be made up, this will see him likely not get the opportunity to work alongside incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
Whether the boss decides to play a back four or back five, it looked as if he would be the perfect addition to his setup.
Alonso wanted to speak to Cucurella to assess his standpoint and try and convince him to stay at Stamford Bridge, but those efforts appear to be in jeopardy.
With Chelsea planning to back Alonso suitably in the upcoming transfer window, it looks as if a new left-back could swiftly be added to their list of necessities.
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