The Slim Chances of Barcelona Landing Marc Cucurella: What It Would Take to Make It Happen

Chelsea left back Marc Cucurella continues to be mentioned as a potential Barcelona transfer target, yet the move remains on hold and could stay that way unless the Spanish club makes the tough call to offload one of their previously untouchable defensive stars.

Cucurella openly voiced his frustration with Chelsea's direction under BlueCo ownership back in March, which was widely interpreted as a clear indication of his wish to leave the club after four years.

Barcelona swiftly emerged as a likely destination given that Cucurella is a La Masia graduate. When asked about the prospect of returning to his childhood club, the left back was candid, admitting that "it would be difficult to reject."

With the soon-to-be 28-year-old Spaniard reportedly "willing" to embark on a fresh chapter in his career, many have identified Barcelona as his next destination. While the Catalans do have genuine interest, certain conditions must be met before Cucurella's transfer can gain any real momentum.

The Blaugrana need to raise funds and create space for Cucurella within Hansi Flick's already loaded squad. That can only be achieved if the club facilitates the exits of key defenders, specifically Alejandro Balde or Jules Koundé.

Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde Plan To Stay At Barcelona

Barcelona would only entertain selling Koundé or Balde if a substantial offer came their way. Both players, however, are keen to remain in Catalonia, with Koundé recently addressing his future at the club as he gears up to represent France at the 2026 World Cup.

"I hope to stay at Barça," Koundé said, via Marca. "I have a contract until 2030. In my mind it's quite clear. Right now, with the France national team, these matters take a back seat. I'm completely focused on the World Cup for now, but I'm a Barcelona player and I hope to remain [at the club]."

Barcelona handed Koundé a contract extension last summer following an outstanding 2024–25 season. However, his failure to maintain that level in 2025–26 cost him his starting right back spot and made him a potential sale candidate, with Barça eyeing the funds to reinvest elsewhere.

Likewise, Balde experienced a setback in his progression this season, surrendering the starting left back position in the second half of the campaign to winter loanee João Cancelo, whom Barcelona are now pursuing on a permanent basis.

Should the Catalans finalize a permanent deal for Cancelo, Balde could become a useful asset in negotiations. With the left back contracted until 2028, this may be an ideal moment to sell.

However, Balde has no desire to leave his boyhood club, and Barcelona would only sanction his departure for an irresistible offer. If both Koundé and Balde remain — which appears the most probable outcome — then Cucurella's arrival becomes virtually impossible.

Cucurella Isn't Barcelona's Main Priority

Barcelona's attention is currently almost entirely directed toward signing a top-tier striker. Julián Alvarez is their number one target, and despite an offer of $116 million (€100 million) already being turned down by Atlético Madrid, Barça are expected to press on with their pursuit.

The Catalans have already splashed $93.2 million (€80 million) to sign England international Anthony Gordon. The fee they are expected to pay for a striker reinforcement will likely surpass that figure, and while they should have the financial capacity to fund such a deal, player sales remain necessary to balance the books and steer clear of financial fair play complications that could hinder their ability to register new arrivals.

Striking an agreement with Chelsea for Cucurella won't come at a bargain price, and Barcelona's headline investments this summer are expected to be directed elsewhere. Pursuing free agent opportunities such as Bernardo Silva appears far more realistic than mounting a serious bid for Cucurella.

Barcelona's interest in Cucurella is genuine, but numerous factors must align before any serious approach is made. Until Barça completes their priority business and one of their high-profile defenders departs for a significant fee, Cucurella's homecoming to his boyhood club looks unlikely to materialize.