Chelsea's 'perfect' Marc Cucurella replacement opens door to transfer after Xabi Alonso praise

Several clubs have reportedly contacted Chelsea about signing Spanish left-back Marc Cucurella this summer, but who could replace him at Stamford Bridge?

Cucurella has been a mainstay in Chelsea's side since arriving from Brighton in 2022, helping the west Londoners to Conference League and Club World Cup glory.

Alongside Reece James and Enzo Fernandez, he is seen as one of the senior figures in the Chelsea dressing room, but the 27-year-old could be open to a move this summer.

As reported by The Athletic, the Spain international, who was included in Luis de la Fuente's 26-man squad for the World Cup, has been the subject of enquiries from multiple clubs.

Sources claim the full-back is willing to move on this summer despite opening talks over a new long-term contract at Stamford Bridge in 2025.

Barcelona are among his suitors, with sporting director Deco already contacting the player's representatives, while head coach Hansi Flick is an admirer of his ability.

However, a switch to Barca may depend on whether the La Liga side sell a defender first.

Atletico Madrid are also interested, with Diego Simeone viewing Cucurella as a priority target this summer. Sporting director Mateu Alemany has reportedly spoken to the player's representative.

Across the Spanish capital, Real Madrid are also keen to recruit a left-back and rate the player highly, although a move to the Santiago Bernabeu could prove complicated due to financial constraints.

Who could replace Cucurella at Chelsea?

Just hours after reports emerged regarding Cucurella's possible exit, his compatriot and fellow left-back Alejandro "Alex" Grimaldo suggested he would be open to a transfer this summer.

The player previously worked under current Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, with the 30-year-old playing an important role in the club's double-winning season in 2024.

Speaking to journalist Fabrizio Romano, he said: "I want to return to La Liga."

Grimaldo is contracted to Bayer Leverkusen until 2027, which could see him become available for a reduced fee.

While the player appears keen on a return to Spain after more than a decade away, he may find it difficult to turn down the prospect of a reunion with Alonso, given the strong relationship the pair developed during their time together in Germany.

Speaking about Alonso in 2024, Grimaldo told The Athletic: "Being coached by Xabi Alonso is something special, and we have a very good project and a very strong team.

"I knew I was ready to take a step to any league. I've always had good numbers for both goals and assists. Making decisions in the final third of the pitch is one of my strengths. And this year, it's true that everything is going very well, with the help of Xabi, his staff and my team-mates."

Turning his attention to Alonso's management style, he explained: "Xabi is very demanding, but with respect. If you misplace a pass in training, he says, 'Come on, come on, you can't make that mistake'.

"He makes those demands, but at the same time, when you are doing it well, he encourages you.

"It is something that motivates you, and I love it. I have experience and I am relaxed about being corrected. I like to see how he also encourages the younger players. I'd have loved to have a coach like him when I was 20 years old."

Grimaldo has produced 30 goals and 45 assists in 145 appearances for Bayer. He also has 12 Spain caps. Could he be a cheap, almost perfect replacement for Cucurella?