Manchester United and City chase Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella

Manchester United and Manchester City are both reported to be targeting Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella, who has indicated a desire to leave Stamford Bridge this summer. He is a 27-year-old Spaniard linked with a move away from the club. Cucurella joined Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022 on a six-year deal for a reported £63 million fee. He has spent four seasons at Stamford Bridge and has reportedly expressed his wish to depart ahead of the next campaign. Chelsea are said to be willing to sell for an offer in the €40‑50 million range (£34.5‑£43.2 million). The figure reflects the price he originally commanded, which was a club-record sale for Brighton. Manchester United have been searching for a long-term left-back after Luke Shaw’s injury concerns eased. The club also faces the loss of Tyrell Malacia and the repositioning of Patrick Dorgu to the left wing, adding pressure ahead of their Champions League return. Following Pep Guardiola’s departure from the Etihad Stadium, former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been linked as a possible successor at Manchester City. A reunion between Maresca and Cucurella at City has been widely reported as a potential factor in the transfer race. Cucurella has attracted interest from La Liga giants Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, with Atletico reported as the most persistent suitor. Barcelona’s interest is conditioned on Alejandro Balde’s departure, and the club’s recent £69.3 million signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United and a £100 million-plus link for Julian Alvarez may reduce their pursuit. In the most recent season, Cucurella started 43 of his 50 appearances for Chelsea, scoring one goal and providing four assists. His career tally stands at 163 matches, nine goals and 13 assists, and includes a Conference League title and a FIFA Club World Cup win with the West London club. Cucurella remains focused on the upcoming World Cup, with any decision on his future expected after the tournament.