Chelsea Player Keen to Explore Move Away From Stamford Bridge

It's safe to say, another huge summer awaits for everyone associated with Chelsea. 

It is the beginning of the Xabi Alonso era, who has signed a four year contract with the club. Notably and importantly, he has been described as "manager", rather than "head coach", unlike his predecessors. 

Then, as there often is, there is an expectation that there will be a lot of upheaval in the playing squad. We have already seen Joao Pedro linked with Barcelona, as well as the Enzo Fernandez to Real Madrid links that never quite seem to go away. 

One other Chelsea player who has been frequently linked with a move away, and also to Spain, is left-back Marc Cucurella. Last month, it was reported that he will play for "either Atletico Madrid or Barcelona next season", with a move back to La Liga a matter of when rather than if. 

Now, over the past few weeks, that story and similar reports died down a little. However, this morning - of Monday, the 1st of June 2026 - The Athletic have reported that Cucurella is keen to explore a move away from SW6. 

They report that Alonso has contacted "several Chelsea players" multiple times over the past few weeks, including his compatriot. They state that the gaffer wants him as part of his squad, but is aware that he would like to look elsewhere for his future. 

Furthermore, they state that although the player is not actively for sale, he is not untouchable in the market. Alternative options are touched on, including the "rapid development" of Dutch youngster Jorrel Hato. 

It is also said that "multiple clubs" have been in touch with people working on Cucurella's behalf, although the club are "relaxed", as he currently has a contract up until 2029, but they would not block a departure if an offered matched their valuation of him. 

Well, certainly an interesting report. Like with a lot of transfers, both incomings and outgoings, it feels unlikely that anything will be sorted before the World Cup, which starts in just 11 days from now. This isn't ideal, particularly with a new manager, but hopefully plenty of work will go on in the background, even when the tournament is taking place. 

Ultimately, Cucurella is a decent player, but he is definitely not irreplaceable, and if he doesn't want to be at the club, it would be in Chelsea's interests to cash in. Particularly as he is now 28.