Chelsea agree Marc Cucurella transfer with Real Madrid days after his Xabi Alonso comments

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Chelsea have struck a deal with Real Madrid to sell Marc Cucurella in a transfer worth up to £51.7million. It is understood that an initial fee of £47.4m has been agreed, with approximately £4.3m in add-ons.

The paperwork is yet to be formally completed, but the deal is expected to be wrapped up within the week, with Cucurella making the move following the World Cup . Chelsea were not actively seeking to offload the defender, but it is understood that Cucurella was receptive to the right opportunity and eager to leave Stamford Bridge.

The full-back had only signed a fresh deal with the Blues last summer and still has three years remaining on it. Atletico Madrid had also been interested the Spain international, but their La Liga rivals have beaten them to the 27-year-old's signature.

Cucurella has tallied up 150 appearances since joining Chelsea in 2022 in a £63m deal from Brighton and Hove Albion. The defender claimed the Conference League and Club World Cup during his time with the Blues and is currently on international duty with Spain at the World Cup.

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The news arrives shortly after Cucurella admitted he had been "inspired" by Xabi Alonso's arrival at Chelsea. When quizzed on his thoughts about the new manager's project, the full-back replied: "Yes. I've spoken with him and he inspired a lot of confidence in me.

"I've also spoken with (Alejandro) Grimaldo and Borja (Iglesias), who have worked with him, and they spoke very highly of him. The project seems very interesting."

Nevertheless, Cucurella remained guarded regarding earlier transfer rumours, informing Marca: "I'm not reading much and I'm not paying much attention. My agents already know they don't have to tell me anything.

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"I'm very happy where I am, and so is my family. Whatever happens, happens. Right now, I'm focused on the World Cup and enjoying this experience, which is my first and who knows if it will be my last."

The defender will now forfeit the opportunity to work alongside Alonso as he departs for the manager's previous employer before accepting the position at Stamford Bridge. The former Liverpool star occupied the Madrid manager's position for less than a year, initially arriving in May 2025.