Daijiworld Media Network - Madrid
Madrid, Jun 15: Real Madrid have completed the signing of Spain international Marc Cucurella from Chelsea on a six-year contract as the Spanish giants begin rebuilding their squad following a disappointing 2025-26 season.
The LaLiga club announced on Monday that Cucurella will remain at the Santiago Bernabéu until June 30, 2032.
"Real Madrid and Chelsea FC have reached an agreement for the transfer of Marc Cucurella, who will join our club for the next six seasons, until June 30, 2032," the club said in an official statement.
While neither club disclosed the financial details of the deal, British media reports estimated the transfer could be worth up to £51.8 million (approximately $69.5 million).
The signing is Real Madrid's first since Jose Mourinho returned for a second spell as manager, with the club determined to address defensive shortcomings that hampered its campaign last season.
Real Madrid failed to win the LaLiga title and were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League at the quarter-final stage, prompting club president Florentino Perez to prioritise defensive reinforcements after securing a new four-year term.
Cucurella's arrival is viewed as a key part of that rebuilding process.
The 27-year-old defender joins Madrid after spending four seasons at Chelsea, having initially arrived at Stamford Bridge from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022 in a deal reportedly worth up to £63 million.
His early period in England proved challenging, as he struggled to justify his hefty price tag and establish consistency during his first season.
However, the Spanish international revived his career under manager Enzo Maresca, becoming an integral part of Chelsea's tactical setup, often operating as an inverted full-back.
His resurgence played an important role in Chelsea's triumphs in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025.
During his time in London, Cucurella made 163 appearances in all competitions and gradually established himself as one of the club's most dependable performers.
His strong club form also translated onto the international stage.
Since making his debut for Spain in 2021, Cucurella has earned 23 international caps under coach Luis de la Fuente and was a key contributor to Spain's victorious UEFA Euro 2024 campaign.
He is also included in Spain's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For Chelsea, the transfer represents the departure of one of their most experienced defenders following a disappointing domestic season.
The London club endured a difficult 2025-26 Premier League campaign, finishing 10th in the standings and failing to secure qualification for European competitions.
Real Madrid will now hope Cucurella's experience, versatility and recent resurgence can help restore defensive stability as Mourinho begins a new chapter aimed at returning the club to domestic and European success.