Barcelona face Mourinho’s threat as Real Madrid enter race for defensive target | OneFootball

Barcelona seem keen on refreshing the full-back positions this summer transfer window, with the club linked with a number of potential targets.

Among them is Chelsea star Marc Cucurella, who is said to be prioritising a return to the Catalan club despite interest from many other top European teams.

Both Chelsea and Cucurella seem keen on parting ways this summer, and the Blues are unlikely to stand in the way of the Spaniard should a suitable offer come in.

Real Madrid also watching Cucurella

Now, according to journalist Ruben Canizares, speaking on Ruben Martin’s channel, Cucurella is liked by incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho wants Cucurella at Real Madrid. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Just like Hansi Flick, the Portuguese manager is also said to be an admirer of the Spanish left-back and would love the opportunity to make him part of his new project.

The player’s entourage believes that a transfer this summer could be in the range of around €45 million to €50 million and not above that.

Real Madrid’s presence adds an extra dimension to the story. For Barcelona fans, seeing their former academy graduate targeted by their biggest rivals is bound to be uncomfortable.

Still, the Catalan club cannot let sentiment take over, and Barcelona will need movement surrounding Alejandro Balde before considering a move for Cucurella.

Barcelona face a difficult call

Barcelona cannot wait for long. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Balde is currently not considering leaving Barcelona, despite losing his starting berth to Joao Cancelo in the final few months of the season.

Cucurella may be open to a return, but when Jose Mourinho calls, very few players tell him no. Should Barcelona not move for the Spaniard, there is a good chance he will wear the white of Madrid next season.

If Real Madrid move faster and more decisively, Barcelona will have to accept the consequences. For now, this is a transfer the club will have to take their time over, and a solution does not look imminent.