As Xabi Alonso begins reshaping his Chelsea squad, the rise of Jorrel Hato has provided the club with a safety net should Marc Cucurella depart Stamford Bridge this summer.
Marc Cucurella’s future at Chelsea has reached a turning point following a frustrating season that saw the club finish 10th in the Premier League. The 27-year-old, who has three years remaining on his contract, is reportedly open to leaving Stamford Bridge and Cucurella has drawn significant transfer interest from several clubs, including Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.
However, the Chelsea hierarchy are relaxed about the situation but will not block a departure if a suitable valuation is met.
Interestingly, a catalyst behind Chelsea’s willingness to listen to offers is the rapid development of teenage sensation Jorrel Hato.
What is Xabi Alonso’s number one priority as soon as he walks through those doors?🤔
Xabi Alonso's priority as Chelsea manager
Photo by Alvaro Medranda/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images
Xabi Alonso rates Jorrel Hato highly
According to The Athletic, Xabi Alonso will have options to work with if Marc Cucurella leaves.
It’s stated that the rapid development of Jorrel Hato is one of the factors why the club has not deemed Cucurella as an ‘untouchable’ in the market in this window.
Jorrel Hato joined Chelsea on August 3, 2025, signing a long-term seven-year contract after moving from Ajax for an initial £37 million fee.
The defender has quickly adapted to English football, culminating in an impressive debut season by earning a spot in the Netherlands 2026 World Cup squad.
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Chelsea have been linked with both this summer.
Comparing Marc Cucurell and Jorrel Hato
While Marc Cucurella and Jorrel Hato share a left-sided defensive style, they offer distinct profiles.
Cucurella is a traditional, high-energy fullback defined by relentless pressing, tenacious ground duels, and aggressive overlapping runs down the flank.
In contrast, Hato brings a modern, hybrid approach. Possessing a larger frame and superior speed, the Dutchman effortlessly glides between left-back and centre-back. His composure on the ball shines through higher passing accuracy and more incisive progressive passes out of the back, offering a fluid, press-resistant style that perfectly fits Xabi Alonso’s system.
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