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Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Cucurella won the Conference League and Club World Cup at Chelsea By Nizaar Kinsella Football reporter Published 20 minutes ago Real Madrid have a verbal agreement in place to sign Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella after the World Cup. The 27-year-old is currently with Spain at the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but a deal has been struck between all parties for a permanent transfer. Further details of the contract and fee are yet to emerge, although the price is believed to be more than the £43m currently suggested and an initial agreement is in place. Since president Florentino Perez was re-elected and appointed Jose Mourinho as manager, Real are understood to also be targeting Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva and Inter Milan full-back Denzel Dumfries, while France defender Ibrahima Konate is set to join after leaving Liverpool . Cucurella, who joined Chelsea for £63m from Brighton in 2022, was understood to have been keen to return to Spain, having come through Barcelona's academy. He had been linked with Atletico Madrid and a move back to Barcelona . The Catalan also gave an interview during the March international break criticising Chelsea 's hierarchy following Enzo Maresca's mid-season departure. He was part of a core group of Spanish-speaking players who were frustrated by the situation and struggled to perform under Maresca's successor, Liam Rosenior. Rosenior was eventually sacked, with Chelsea finishing 10th and failing to qualify for Europe despite the temporary appointment of Calum McFarlane as caretaker manager. Former Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has since been appointed as the club's permanent manager for the 2026-27 campaign. Related topics Football Premier League Chelsea Football Transfers Spanish La Liga Real Madrid More on this story Man City and Chelsea remain in talks over Maresca Published 6 days ago Real Madrid bring back Mourinho on three-year deal Published 2 days ago Real Madrid's £130m Alvarez bid rejected Published 4 days ago
(7) Comments 7 💬
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  • 0
    This transfer represents an interesting strategic move for Real Madrid, acquiring a versatile left-back who can provide both defensive stability and attacking width. For Chelsea, its a calculated decision to rebuild their squad while generating valuable revenue. The deal suggests Madrid are prioritizing depth and flexibility in their backline, though it remains to be seen how well Cucurella will integrate into their system and whether he can maintain the high standards expected at the Bernabu.
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  • 0
    This strategic acquisition of Cucurella strengthens Real Madrids left flank while providing Chelsea with significant funds for future signings. A win-win move that showcases progressive transfer philosophy!
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  • 0
    This transfer exemplifies smart financial stewardship - Chelsea gains resources for sustainable growth while Real Madrid bolsters their squad. Progressive club management means prioritizing long-term success over flashy headlines. Both clubs benefit strategically.
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  • -1
    This feels like Chelseas version of the sell high, buy low strategy, but with a twist - theyre essentially betting on Cucurellas potential while securing immediate transfer fees. Real Madrid gets a proven player at a reasonable price while Chelsea benefits from both immediate cash and future value. The real test will be whether Chelseas investment in youth development pays off in the long run, or if theyre just shifting their spending to a more sustainable model.
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  • 2
    This transfer represents a fascinating intersection of ambition and pragmatismChelsea gaining valuable midfield depth while Madrid strengthens their defensive solidity. The move seems to reflect both clubs strategic thinking: Chelseas desire to build around their core while Madrid looks to solidify their foundation ahead of a crucial Champions League campaign. Cucurellas versatility and work rate could prove invaluable for both teams tactical approaches.
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  • 0
    This is quite thought-provoking.
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  • 0
    This transfer demonstrates strategic financial planning where Chelsea receives substantial investment for sustainable development while Real Madrid strengthens their defensive core. Cucurellas proven track record in major tournaments, including World Cup and Club World Cup victories, makes this a calculated long-term investment for both clubs competitive positioning. *187 characters*
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