Atlético Madrid, waiting for Xabi Alonso's decision

Marc Cucurella is once again at the center of the Atlético de Madrid market. The left-back from Chelsea and the Spanish national team is one of Atletico's main targets to strengthen a position that Diego Pablo Simeone considers a top priority for the upcoming season.

The player has reportedly given his approval for a potential move to the Metropolitano, but the operation now depends on Xabi Alonso. The new Chelsea coach must define his sports planning and decide whether to allow the Spanish international's departure or make him an untouchable piece at Stamford Bridge.

Atlético insists on an old desire

Atlético's interest in Cucurella is not new. The Madrid club had him on their radar in previous stages when the Catalan was standing out in LaLiga and beginning a career that would eventually lead him to the Premier League. However, he had never been as close as now.

At the Metropolitano, they believe his profile fits perfectly with what Simeone needs. Cucurella is intense, aggressive in pressuring, competitive in duels, and capable of covering the entire wing. He can play as a full-back in a back four but also as a wing-back in a system with three central defenders.

That versatility holds great value for Atlético. The team needs to reinforce the left side with a reliable player, ready to compete from day one and with experience in high-demand scenarios.

Cucurella meets all those requirements. He has played in the Premier League, been important at Chelsea, and established himself as a trustworthy player for the Spanish national team. Additionally, his competitive nature aligns with the DNA that Simeone typically demands from his defenders.

Atlético knows the operation won't be cheap, but they also understand that the player is open to returning to LaLiga. This factor could be decisive if negotiations between clubs reach a definitive stage.

Cucurella awaits Xabi Alonso's decision

The key now lies in London. Xabi Alonso has arrived at Chelsea with the mission to rebuild a project that needs stability, identity, and immediate results. Before making significant decisions in the market, the coach must assess which players he deems essential.

Cucurella is at the center of that analysis. On one hand, his performance and experience make him a useful player for any coach. On the other hand, Chelsea also needs to organize a large squad and might consider exits if there is room to renew certain positions.

The issue for Atlético is that Xabi Alonso seems to highly value the Spanish full-back. Various reports in England suggest that the new coach wants to include some of the most experienced players from the squad, and Cucurella fits into that category.

If the coach deems him non-transferable, the operation will be practically blocked. Chelsea has a valid contract with the player and does not need to sell at any price. However, if Xabi opens the door to a departure, Atlético will try to move swiftly.

Meanwhile, the player awaits developments. His inclination towards Atlético exists, but he does not want to enter into an open conflict with the London club.

A strategic move for the Metropolitano

For Atlético, signing Cucurella would mean more than just adding a full-back. It would be acquiring a competitive player with international experience, ready to raise the team's defensive level in a position where the club seeks solid solutions.

Simeone needs reliable players in big games. Cucurella, due to his drive and character, can offer exactly that. He is not a passive full-back but a player who approaches every match with intensity and can adapt to various match strategies.

Furthermore, his return to Spain would make sense for the player himself. He knows LaLiga, understands the championship's demands, and would arrive at a club where he could assume a very important role from the outset.

Chelsea will set the pace of negotiations. Atlético is ready, Cucurella views the move positively, and Simeone considers him a top-tier reinforcement. But everything hinges on Xabi Alonso.

If the coach decides to keep him, Atlético's dream will have to wait. If he is willing to entertain offers, Atlético could be facing the best opportunity in recent years to secure a signing that has been on their agenda for too long.