The sacrifice of Barcelona for Cucurella's return

Marc Cucurella is back on the radar of FC Barcelona's transfers. The Chelsea full-back is highly rated, but his return depends on a delicate condition: the departure of Alejandro Balde. The Catalan club is looking to strengthen the left flank with a more seasoned profile. However, the operation requires sporting space, salary margin, and a significant sale.

Barça's management believes that there can't be two strong choices for the same position without upsetting the internal balance. Marc Cucurella has regained prestige in England. At Chelsea, he has established himself as an intense, reliable full-back with the ability to sustain long attacks.

His performance has piqued the interest of FC Barcelona and also Atletico Madrid. Competition could drive up a deal that's already complex. Chelsea has no need to gift him away. Reports from England suggest a valuation ranging between 50 and 70 million euros.

For Barça, that figure only makes sense with a significant prior sale. This is where Alejandro Balde emerges as a key player in the chess game.

Alejandro Balde, the key to activate Barça's operation

Balde has shifted from being viewed as a future asset to entering a zone of uncertainty. While his contract remains valid, his role has changed. The emergence of other options and the potential continuity of Joao Cancelo have diminished his importance in Hansi Flick's plans. The scenario is no longer the same.

FC Barcelona is aware that Balde is still highly regarded in the Premier League. Manchester United, Manchester City, and Aston Villa have been monitoring his progress for months. Selling Alejandro Balde would help finance part of the Cucurella deal and open up a congested spot. Without this move, acquiring the Chelsea player seems very unlikely.

Chelsea will not make it easy for Marc Cucurella to leave

Chelsea considers Marc Cucurella a key player. His energy, defensive aggression, and experience in big games have boosted his value. Moreover, the World Cup could impact the timing. A standout performance with Spain would enhance his market value and provide Chelsea with more leverage to toughen their stance.

The player, on the other hand, would welcome a return to Spain. LaLiga appears as an enticing destination after several demanding years in the Premier League. FC Barcelona holds an emotional card as Cucurella was trained in La Masia and understands what it means to wear the blaugrana colors.

FC Barcelona and Atletico competing for a market opportunity

Atletico Madrid is also monitoring the situation. Simeone seeks competitive full-backs, and Cucurella fits the bill with his intensity, experience, and ability to cover plenty of ground. This pressure compels Barça to act meticulously. It's not just about impressing the player; they also need to persuade Chelsea and organize their own squad.

Barça's sporting direction cannot afford impulsive moves. First, they must sort out Alejandro Balde's future and then assess how far they can go. This case encapsulates the current transfer market scenario at FC Barcelona: sporting desire, financial constraints, and tough decisions. Before signing, they must sell.

Marc Cucurella would be a top-notch addition for FC Barcelona, but it all hinges on Alejandro Balde. Without his exit, the full-back's return to Camp Nou will remain blocked.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El sacrificado del Barcelona para que vuelva Cucurella