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A race against time at the Rojiblancos. Two obstacles stand in the way of a German revolution to restore defenses
Atletico Madrid sporting director Matti Alemany is making intensive moves to rebuild the team’s defensive line during the current summer Mercato, making the Chelsea star a priority and serving as the “cornerstone” of the new project.
Reports indicate that Aleman’s plan aims to establish two positions in the rear line. the first is Marc Cucurella as a structural deal that requires a huge financial investment, followed by a deal to bring in a centre-back that will be settled quietly to compensate for the expected departures of Clément Lenglet and Jose Maria Jimenez.
Although Cucurella, 27, is keen to return to La Liga after five years in the Premier League, the deal faces tangible complications. Alemany is keen to complete negotiations by the end of this June, fearing the player’s financial value will explode if he shines in a La Roja shirt at the tournament.2026 World Cup Final.
There are two main obstacles in front of the “Royblancos” management. the first is Barcelona’s interest in the player as one of the best options on the market, and the second is… Xabi Alonso has taken over the technical leadership of Chelsea; Cucurella is highly regarded by the Basque coach, which could prompt the London club to stick with him despite his contract expiring in 2028 and their desire to reduce the age of the squad.
Alemany believes the left-back position is the most glaring weakness in Atletico Madrid’s squad of late, and the Cucurella deal needs to be addressed as there is no specialist player other than Ruggieri.
As for defensive depth, the administration won’t be in a rush to spend, as the next defender will be an additional and cheap option, joining a current defense led by names like Mark Popel, David Hanko and Robin Le Normand.
