UMVA has learned that Real Madrid made a surprise move to sign Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella, a Spain international, in a deal worth up to £51.8million, just after meeting with the agents of Riccardo Calafiori.
The swift agreement to sign Cucurella comes as a major coup for Jose Mourinho's Real revolution, with the left-back expected to feature in Spain's World Cup opener against Cape Verde on Monday. Cucurella's departure from Chelsea seems imminent, with the defender unlikely to return to west London after the tournament.
Cucurella, who joined Chelsea in 2022 from Brighton, had flourished under Enzo Maresca but recently spoke out against the Premier League club, criticizing their policy of signing young players and blaming their struggles on the departure of Maresca. This transfer move marks a significant shift in Cucurella's career, which began at Barcelona, a bitter rival of Real Madrid.
The Catalunya-born defender made only one appearance for Barcelona in the Copa del Rey before his career took off at Getafe. His impressive performances at Getafe caught the attention of Brighton, who signed him as an attacking full-back. Cucurella's move to Chelsea in a deal worth £60m resulted in 163 appearances for the club.
Real Madrid's summer transfer spree continues with Cucurella's signing, following deals for Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva. Although Real Madrid initially considered signing Riccardo Calafiori, a 24-year-old Arsenal star, they will not make an offer, Fabrizio Romano reports. Calafiori, who joined Arsenal from Bologna two years ago, has established himself as a favorite of Mikel Arteta but has faced regular injuries.
Real Madrid also expressed interest in signing Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol, who missed much of last season due to injury. However, the Croatia international is set to sign a new contract at City, committing his long-term future to the club. This development solidifies Cucurella's position as a key signing for Real Madrid in their ongoing transfer blitz.
