Spanish defender, Marc Cucurella, is set to leave Chelsea for Real Madrid after both clubs reached an agreement on a transfer worth up to £51.8 million (€60 million/$69.3 million), according to reports from ESPN sources.
The agreement includes an initial payment of £47.4 million (€55m/$63.5m), while a further £4.3 million (€5m/$5.7m) could be paid in add-ons.
Confirming the breakthrough in negotiations, football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano wrote, “Real Madrid reach verbal agreement to sign Marc Cucurella from Chelsea.
“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.”
Although Cucurella only signed a fresh contract with Chelsea last summer, sources revealed that the 27-year-old was willing to move on after the Blues failed to qualify for European competition following a disappointing 10th-place finish in the Premier League.
It remains uncertain whether the Spain international held discussions with incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who officially begins work on July 1.
Meanwhile, new Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho is understood to be a strong admirer of the full-back and played a major role in pushing for the transfer.
Real Madrid reportedly fended off interest from Barcelona and Atlético Madrid before quickly finalising terms once personal agreements were reached with the player.
Cucurella had publicly criticised Chelsea’s decision to dismiss Enzo Maresca in January, insisting the club appeared “more stable” under the Italian tactician.
Since arriving from Brighton in 2022 for £60 million (€69.5m/$80m), Cucurella has featured 163 times for Chelsea.
He was also part of the Spain squad that lifted the Euro 2024 title and is expected to represent his country again at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
