Real Madrid beat Manchester United to signing Chelsea defender
Image Credits: Imago Images
Manchester United are assessing their options on the left side of their defence this summer, with Patrick Dorgu being seen as a winger and Luke Shaw the only reliable option further back.
In the 2025/26 season, Luke Shaw was one of fewer than half a dozen Premier League players to start all 38 matches, but the Red Devils need another option. They’re back in Europe next season, and cannot rely on Shaw to play 50 games in all competitions.
One option the club have assessed is Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall. CentreDevils exclusively revealed in May that United had made enquiries about the signing, and this is now one they could push for, with the news that another left-back on their radar is set for elsewhere.
Manchester United have closely monitored the situation of Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella as they consider their options this summer.
But according to Fabrizio Romano on X, Marc Cucurella is set to sign for Real Madrid, with a verbal agreement in place between all parties. The Spanish left-back is the defender specifically targeted by new manager Jose Mourinho, and it appears the former Manchester United boss has got his wish.
Cucurella originally joined Chelsea for £60m from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022 and has become an important player for the Blues, but now looks destined for the Spanish giants. According to the Athletic, the fee for Cucurella to move to Real Madrid will be €60m after add-ons.
It’s a blow for Manchester United, but points to the potential signing of Lewis Hall even further, after the English defender missed out on Thomas Tuchel’s 2026 World Cup squad. Meanwhile, Cucurella is at the tournament in North America with Spain, and his move to Madrid will not be completed until his nation exits.
United’s options have now been narrowed down further – a calculated move for Hall, if he’s the club’s top target, would be a smart way to react to this breaking news.
🚨💣 EXCLUSIVE: Real Madrid reach verbal agreement to sign Marc Cucurella from Chelsea, HERE WE GO!
Verbal agreement in place between all parties, player too — he’s the left back wanted by Mourinho. Details to follow.
Cucurella leaves #CFC and joins Madrid after World Cup. ⚪️🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/kXRXWgADFm
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 14, 2026
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