Real Madrid have agreed a deal to sign Marc Cucurella from Chelsea, with the transfer set to be completed after the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The 27-year-old Spain international is currently on duty in the United States with the national team. Once the tournament concludes, he will finalise his move to Madrid, ending a four-year spell at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea brought Cucurella to west London from Brighton four years ago for £63m. He will now depart for a fee believed to exceed €50m (£43.1m), though the clubs have not officially confirmed the figure.

Mourinho's busy summer

The signing marks another significant piece of business for incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who is due to officially take charge of the club next month. Cucurella had been identified as a priority target for Mourinho's new-look squad, which has already been bolstered by deals for Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva.

Despite interest from Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and Manchester City, Cucurella's preference was clear — he wanted to join Real Madrid. The former Barcelona full-back had previously been linked with a return to his old club, but opted instead for the Santiago Bernabéu.

A blow for Xabi Alonso

The departure deals a significant blow to incoming Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso, who is set to inherit a squad already stretched for experience. Cucurella was not among Chelsea's list of untouchable players — a group that includes Cole Palmer and Reece James — but his exit still leaves a clear gap in the defensive ranks.

Before the deal was finalised, Cucurella made his frustrations at the club public, openly criticising Chelsea's transfer policy and expressing disappointment at the departure of former head coach Enzo Maresca earlier this year.