Atletico Madrid Open Talks for Marc Cucurella

Atletico Madrid have opened formal talks with Chelsea about signing left‑back Marc Cucurella. Barcelona also remain interested in the 27‑year‑old, creating a three‑way contest for the player. Journalist Ben Jacobs reported the opening of talks. Barcelona have used Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde as first‑choice full‑backs in recent seasons, but both delivered disappointing 2025/26 campaigns. Joao Cancelo arrived on loan in January and displaced Balde, while Eric Garcia appeared more comfortable on the right flank. Diego Simeone listed Cucurella as a priority target ahead of the 2026/27 season, and the Madrid club aim to negotiate a fee below €50 million. Chelsea are not pushing the player out but will listen to offers despite Cucurella having three years left on his contract. Hansi Flick values the profile Cucurella would bring, but his interest hinges on the future of Alejandro Balde, who remains in the coach’s plans. When asked about his future, Cucurella sidestepped the choice between Atletico and Barcelona and said his focus is on the World Cup. If negotiations progress quickly, Atletico Madrid could become the leading candidate before Barcelona act. Should Atletico secure the signing, Barcelona would watch their former La Masia graduate compete against them next season.