Former La Masia defender had prioritised Barcelona return before deciding to join Real Madrid | OneFootball

Marc Cucurella was the biggest news in Spain yesterday after Fabrizio Romano offered his customary ‘here we go’ for his transfer to Real Madrid.

The Spanish international is set for a shock switch to Santiago Bernabeu, where he could become Jose Mourinho’s first-choice left-back, ahead of Alvaro Carreras.

Cucurella’s likely move to Real Madrid wasn’t received well by Barcelona fans, as he was a product of the La Masia academy and had even made one appearance for the senior team before leaving the club.

Cucurella’s priority was Barcelona

Cucurella wanted to join Barcelona initially. (Photo by Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images)

According to COPE, Cucurella, despite his impending move to Real Madrid, had always prioritised a return to Barcelona.

More importantly, though, the Chelsea defender simply wanted to return to Spain. Unfortunately for him, a move to his former club Barcelona was not a realistic one thanks to the club’s economic condition.

As a result, Cucurella opted for a move to Real Madrid, who will likely offer him the chance to become a first-team regular, ahead of players like Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia.

It must be noted that Los Blancos will pay as much as €55 million for the Spaniard, with an additional €5 million in the form of add-ons.

This is something that Barcelona wouldn’t have been able to offer, as the Catalans are currently prioritising a move for a new forward.

A missed opportunity for Barcelona?

Cucurella set for Real Madrid switch. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Missing out on Cucurella is certainly one thing, but to see him join a direct rival like Real Madrid is not something ideal for Barcelona.

The Catalans still do have Alejandro Balde, but the Spaniard has struggled with form and fitness. Cucurella, in fact, was targeted as an ideal replacement for Balde.

In recent weeks, Balde has been linked with a move to Manchester City, who are reportedly preparing a €70 million offer for the Spanish international.

If Balde does end up leaving, it will be a challenge for Barcelona to find a new left-back in the market, who can instantly fit into the system. Cucurella, in that regard, could have been a great fit.