Marc Cucurella, who caused major problems for Germany’s DFB side during the 2024 European Championship, is reportedly on the verge of a high-profile transfer.

According to The Athletic, Cucurella is keen to leave Chelsea this summer. The London club is said to be open to selling the Spanish left-back if the right offer comes in.

The Athletic further reports that several top European teams are interested in signing him. FC Barcelona are keeping a close eye on the defender’s situation, with sporting director Deco already in touch with his representatives. Both Deco and head coach Hansi Flick are said to hold the 27-year-old in very high regard.

Interestingly, if Cucurella does return to Barcelona, he would be working under a German coach in Hansi Flick. The potential reunion carries a touch of irony—during Spain’s quarter-final clash against Germany at Euro 2024, Cucurella’s handball in the box at 1-1 went unpunished, denying the hosts a penalty. Spain went on to score late in extra time, knocking Germany out of the tournament.

For Cucurella, a move to Barcelona would be deeply personal. Born in Catalonia, he joined Barça’s academy at the age of 14. Despite making only one senior appearance, he was loaned to Eibar in 2018/19 and Getafe in 2019/20 before being sold permanently to Getafe in 2020 for just under €12 million. A year later, Brighton & Hove Albion signed him, and Chelsea paid a club-record €65.3 million to bring him to Stamford Bridge in 2022.

Reports now suggest that Cucurella is unhappy at Chelsea. The club might demand at least €70 million for his transfer.

After four seasons with the Blues, The Athletic claims Cucurella has grown increasingly disillusioned with the club’s direction. His frustration largely stems from Chelsea’s transfer policy, which focuses on signing young and inexperienced players. “There was a lack of experience. For many players, it was their first match of this magnitude – and we paid the price,” he told The Athletic in March after Chelsea’s elimination by Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League Round of 16 (2-5 and 0-3). “I understand that this is the club’s policy. But for anyone who wants to win major titles, it’s discouraging. Relying only on young players can make things harder.”

He is also reportedly disappointed by Chelsea’s decision to sack Enzo Maresca early in the year, despite the Italian having guided them to a Club World Cup win. His successor, Liam Rosenior, could not turn things around and left in April. The Blues ended the Premier League season in tenth place, missing out on European football—a key reason for Cucurella’s dissatisfaction.

Nevertheless, Chelsea remain calm about the situation. With Cucurella’s contract running until 2029, they maintain control over his future and can demand a high transfer fee. Reports suggest they will not consider offers below €70 million.

However, Barcelona’s ability to make a move depends on their own financial manoeuvres. They would need to sell players first to free up funds for Cucurella’s return. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has reportedly spoken to the player several times recently, hoping to convince him to stay, but Cucurella is said to have made it clear that he wants to leave.

Barcelona’s pursuit of the left-back could hinge on the sale of a centre-back. Alejandro Balde, who has struggled for form, might be open to an exit, while Jules Koundé has publicly stated that he plans to remain at the club. João Cancelo, who spent the last six months on loan from Al-Hilal, could also be signed permanently.

Even so, Barcelona are not the only club in the race. Atlético Madrid are reportedly strong contenders, having made Cucurella their top target for the summer as they look to strengthen at left-back. Talks are believed to have already started, and unlike Barça, Atlético do not need to sell players to fund the transfer.

Real Madrid are also loosely linked with interest, while Manchester City round out the list of potential suitors. Interestingly, former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is expected to take over from Pep Guardiola at City, which could further increase the club’s interest in Cucurella.

Before any club decision is made, Cucurella’s focus remains on the upcoming World Cup. Spain, the reigning European champions, are among the favourites for the title. The defender has earned 23 caps for his country and played a key role at the Euro 2024 tournament. He is expected to be a major part of Spain’s World Cup campaign, which begins on 11 June. Ahead of the tournament, Cucurella named Ecuador—Germany’s group opponent—as a potential surprise package. Spain will face Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde in the group stage.

Marc Cucurella: Chelsea FC Stats

Appearances: 163

Goals: 9

Assists: 13