Chelsea troll Brighton with playful Marc Cucurella transfer announcement

Chelsea have directed a playful dig towards Brighton in their announcement of the Marc Cucurella transfer. 

Two days ago, rumours started to circulate that Cucurella was on the verge of joining Chelsea, which led to Brighton releasing a statement via Twitter that read: “CLUB STATEMENT: MARC CUCURELLA. Contrary to inaccurate reports from numerous media outlets this evening, no agreement has been reached with any club to sell Marc Cucurella.” 

And on Friday afternoon, Chelsea announced the transfer of Cucurella in similar fashion. 

They said on Twitter: “CLUB STATEMENT: MARC CUCURELLA. Following reports from numerous media outlets this week, we can confirm an agreement has been reached with Brighton and Hove Albion for the signing of Marc Cucurella.” 

Cucurella becomes Thomas Tuchel’s fifth summer signing after Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, Carney Chukwuemeka and Gabriel Slonina. 

The Spanish full back joined the Blues in a deal worth £62 million, meaning he is now the seventh most expensive defender in football history. Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill has joined Brighton on loan as part of the deal. 

Prior to the announcement, Tuchel was full of praise for the Spaniard. 

He said: “It's not done yet. I don't want to say I know nothing about it but the paperwork is in process and we hope to get it done before noon. Marc is a terrific player. He can play several positions.” 

Cucurella handed in a transfer request after an initial interest from Manchester City. 

However, the Etihad club were put off by the huge asking price by Brighton, but Chelsea stepped in as they were willing to meet the price set by the Seagulls. 

The 24-year-old former Barcelona player can play as a left back, left centre back or left wing back and is brought in as a cover for Ben Chilwell. Cucurella’s versatility could allow him to potentially compete for a starting place at left centre back. 

Upon his arrival, Cucurella told Chelsea’s official website: “I’m really happy. It’s a big opportunity for me to join one of the best clubs in the world and I’m going to work hard to be happy here and help the team.” 

The Blues will kick off their 22/23 Premier League season on Saturday as they travel to Goodison Park to face an Everton side managed by Chelsea legend, Frank Lampard.