Real Madrid sign Cucurella from Chelsea for £51.8m

Real Madrid have announced the signing of Spain defender Marc Cucurella from Chelsea on a six-year deal.

The fee is £47.5 million plus £4.3 million in add-ons, with the potential to rise to £51.8 million in total.

“Real Madrid CF and Chelsea FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Marc Cucurella, who will be linked to our club for the next six seasons, until June 30, 2032,” Real said in a statement on Monday.

Chelsea signed Cucurella from Brighton four years ago for £63 million.

The 27-year-old defender made 163 appearances for the Blues, winning the Conference League and Club World Cup.

Multiple clubs were interested in signing him but the former Barcelona full-back wanted to sign for Real Madrid. He had been linked with a return to Barcelona, as well as Atletico Madrid and Manchester City.

Cucurella is currently at the World Cup with Spain, who play their first Group H match against Cape Verde on Monday.

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Speaking on the player’s departure, Chelsea said: “Everyone at Chelsea FC would like to thank Marc for his efforts during his time at the club and for the role he played in our recent achievements.

“We wish him every success as he begins the next stage of his career.”

It has already been a very busy summer for incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who will officially start work at his new club next month. Deals for Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva have been secured.

Netherlands defender Jorrel Hato, who joined from Ajax last summer for £37 million, is now in contention to be Chelsea’s first-choice left-back next season, although the club could also strengthen in that position.