Marc Cucurella is one of the players who has been linked with a move away from Chelsea in recent months. He is someone who openly spoke to the media about not agreeing with BlueCo’s transfer policy or the decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca. And with the left-back’s form fluctuating this season, it has been suggested that he could be on his way out.
Obviously, Cucurella has been a nailed-on starter for the club for the past few seasons. So, the Spaniard leaving would be a blow for Chelsea.
Xabi Alonso is expected to have a big say on potential arrivals and departures this summer. What does the incoming manager think about Cucurella potentially leaving the club? Does he want him to stay? Or is he open to the departure?
We finally have the answer to those questions. According to The Athletic, Alonso has contacted Cucurella. The manager wants to keep the Spain international in his squad for next season. That being said, he is aware of the player’s willingness to explore a move.
Xabi Alonso wants Marc Cucurella to stay but is aware of the left-back’s plans
Cucurella still has three years left on his contract at Chelsea. So, the club are in a good position here and there is no need to panic.
At the same time though, previous reports have made it clear that Alonso does not want to keep players who don’t want to stay. He only wants those who are all in on the project.
If that is accurate, then it is hard to imagine that he would stand in the way of a Cucurella exit this summer. Of course, it would depend on the kind of transfer fee Chelsea want and whether any club is willing to meet it.
Cucurella is one of the best left-backs in the world who is just entering his prime on the pitch. One would imagine it would take a significant fee to convince Chelsea to part ways.
Where could Cucurella go if he leaves Chelsea?
There are four clubs that have been linked with Cucurella so far. The most prominent are FC Barcelona. But it remains to be seen if they will make a move or have the finances to do so, having already signed Anthony Gordon and targeting a move for Julian Alvarez.
Atletico Madrid are believed to have Cucurella in their sights as well. In recent years, we have seen them pay big fees to sign players from the Premier League.
Real Madrid could be another destination. But it is unclear how serious their interest is when it comes to signing the Spaniard.
The fourth club are Manchester City, where Cucurella would get the chance to reunite with Maresca. But it does not seem like they want a left-back right now.
Sourav Mahanty
Sourav Mahanty has covered teams like Chelsea, Celtic, Real Madrid, Manchester United, PSG and more over a career that has now lasted a decade. His work has been featured on Sports Illustrated, Athlon Sports, SB Nation, FanSided, The Sportster and aggregated through Bleacher Report and NewsNow. Outside of football, he is also interested in basketball, cricket and professional wrestling.
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