Marc Cucurella’s time at Chelsea is over. Real Madrid have agreed a deal worth up to £51.8m for the Spain left-back, who will complete the move after the World Cup.
The package comprises an initial £47.5m with a further £4.3m in add-ons, struck between all parties for a permanent transfer. Cucurella, 27, is currently with Spain at the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but the agreement signals his return to Spain after four years at Stamford Bridge.
“Real Madrid agree up to £51.8m for Chelsea's Marc Cucurella; Spain left-back moves after World Cup.”
His departure had been coming. During the March international break, Cucurella openly criticised the Chelsea hierarchy, saying the team paid for “inexperience” after being thrashed by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. He also raised misgivings over Enzo Maresca’s mid-season departure as head coach. The Catalan, who came through Barcelona’s academy, had been linked with Atletico Madrid and a return to Barcelona, but Madrid moved swiftly after appointing José Mourinho as manager.
Chelsea finished 10th last season, failing to qualify for Europe, and sacked Liam Rosenior before temporarily appointing Calum McFarlane as caretaker. Former Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has since been appointed permanent manager for the 2026-27 campaign. The club felt Cucurella’s level dipped after Christmas and were encouraged by the form of his deputy, 20-year-old Netherlands left-back Jorrel Hato.
Cucurella had three years left on his contract, despite agreeing improved terms without an extension last season, which likely influenced Chelsea’s decision to accept the offer. He joined Chelsea from Brighton for £63m in 2022 and has won the Conference League and Club World Cup.
Madrid are revamping their squad after two trophyless years. They have also agreed to sign former Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva on a free transfer, Inter Milan full-back Denzel Dumfries, and former Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konaté. Whether they look to further raid Chelsea for Enzo Fernández remains to be seen. The Argentina midfielder also spoke out against the hierarchy towards the end of the season and has made no secret of his desire to join Madrid, but Chelsea will demand more than £100m for him. For now, Cucurella’s exit is sealed.