Barcelona will consider moving for former La Masia graduate if defender leaves | OneFootball

FC Barcelona are preparing for what could be a busy summer. With the domestic season over and the World Cup approaching, the Catalans have already been active behind the scenes as it looks to strengthen Hansi Flick’s squad for the 2026/27 campaign.

The club’s first major signing, Anthony Gordon, was completed in remarkably quick fashion. Bernardo Silva is also edging closer to joining the club. At the same time, the Blaugrana are also working on a deal for Julian Alvarez.

Barcelona are expected to make further moves before the end of the transfer window.

Marc Cucurella on the agenda

Now, according to SPORT, Marc Cucurella has emerged as one of Barcelona’s potential targets for the coming transfer window, although any move for the Chelsea full-back would depend heavily on what happens with Jules Kounde.

The Chelsea defender, who came through Barcelona’s La Masia academy system, has been linked with a return to Camp Nou for several months.

Cucurella to return to Barcelona? (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

It is understood that Cucurella would be open to leaving Chelsea, while the London club would also be willing to consider a transfer.

Cucurella is believed to be interested in returning to Spanish football, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid both monitoring the situation.

Both Deco and Hansi Flick appreciate the player’s profile. Cucurella’s versatility, experience and ability to operate at a high level on the left side make him an attractive option.

Kounde could be key

However, Barcelona would first need to create room in the squad and generate additional income to make the operation feasible. The most obvious way to unlock a move for Cucurella would be through the departure of Kounde.

The French defender has experienced an inconsistent period, with Flick himself acknowledging that the player has been dealing with certain difficulties. It has given way to speculations over his future.

Kounde’s future is uncertain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Should Kounde leave, Barcelona would not only free up a place in the defensive unit but would also receive a substantial transfer fee. That income could then be used to finance a move for Cucurella.

In such a scenario, Joao Cancelo would be expected to continue occupying the right side of defence, while Alejandro Balde would remain the primary option on the left, with Cucurella adding further competition and depth.

For now, Barcelona’s interest in Cucurella remains on hold. The operation is not considered a priority at this stage, but it could quickly become active if there is movement in the defensive department.

The expected transfer fee is believed to be around €40 million, potentially rising through bonuses and add-ons.