Real Madrid reach agreement in principle to sign Marc Cucurella a day after Chelsea star was ‘inspired’ by Xabi Alonso

Real Madrid have reached an agreement in principle with Chelsea for Marc Cucurella, talkSPORT understands.

Atletico Madrid were also in talks for the left-back, who is with Spain at the World Cup.

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However, Cucurella has picked their city rivals Madrid as his next club, with a deal being done quickly over the past 24 hours.

Cucurella will leave Chelsea four years after signing from Brighton in a move worth £60million.

The 27-year-old made 163 appearances across all competitions for the Blues, scoring nine goals and assisting 13.

Cucurella won the Club World Cup and Conference League during his time at Stamford Bridge.

News of his pending move to Madrid will come as a surprise following comments he made on his future this weekend.

Speaking to Marca on transfer speculation, he said: “I’m not reading much and I’m not paying much attention. My agents already know they don’t have to tell me anything.

“I’m very happy where I am, and so is my family. Whatever happens, happens. Right now, I’m focused on the World Cup and enjoying this experience, which is my first and who knows if it will be my last.”

When asked if he was inspired by the Chelsea project under their new manager Xabi Alonso, he replied: “Yes.

“I’ve spoken with him and he inspired a lot of confidence in me. I’ve also spoken with (Alejandro) Grimaldo and Borja (Iglesias), who have worked with him, and they spoke very highly of him.

“The project seems very interesting.”

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talkSPORT revealed earlier this month that Chelsea would be willing to sell Cucurella if their valuation was met.

However, it’s not clear how much his Madrid switch will cost as of yet.

Cucurella has three years remaining on his deal at Chelsea, who have Jorrel Hato ready to fill the void at left-back.

More to follow…