Marc Cucurella’s future is the subject of huge speculation with the Brighton full-back heavily linked with a move to Manchester City earlier this summer. Getty Cucurella is said to be a big fan of Pep Guardiola, but he may not be playing under the legendary manager just yet. However, a lack of progress in talks between the Premier League champions and the Seagulls has seen Chelsea enter the race for the 24-year-old. And it looks like the West Londoners will understand that their Chelsea man is willing to pay the £50million the Seagulls are asking for the player. A year ago it would have seemed crazy to see two of the Premier League’s biggest clubs in a tug-of-war for the defender who was plying his trade at Getafe in LaLiga until the summer 2021 deadline. But Cucurella’s impressive form last term has seen many turning in his direction. So what’s all the fuss about?

Marc Cucurella Brighton 2021/22 Stats

Chances Created: 3rd Tackle Success: 3rd Duel Success: 4th Recoveries: 1st The stats show he’s a solid defender, but it’s what he delivers going forward that undoubtedly gives him an edge. Cucurella created 40 goalscoring chances from open play in the Premier League last season, more than any other Chelsea player apart from Rhys James (42).

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Stats don’t give a full picture of a player’s performance – one goal and one assist all season isn’t exactly a glowing return for a modern full-back. But any Brighton fan will give a glowing review when asked about Cucurella’s performances last season, which culminated when he scored in the Seagulls’ 4-0 win over Manchester United, the goal that left the player emotionally drained. Cucurella himself probably couldn’t imagine having to choose between City and Chelsea, but the player’s previous comments suggest he would snub both sides in a heartbeat for Barcelona, ​​where he started his career. Cucurella, who has just one Barca appearance to his name, told Spanish publication Sport in November 2021: “In the end, I’ve been there for many years at Barca and you could say it’s my home and my family or that of my wife, who is from Barcelona. sky sports Cucurella’s reaction to his first Brighton goal shows he wears his heart on his sleeve Getty Cucurella has just one competitive appearance for Barca to his name, which was seven minutes in 2017. He may feel he has unfinished business “I have a thorn in my side because I made my debut in the first team but I was never able to play at Camp Nou and I think it’s something I would like to do before I retire or leave football.” With Chelsea already missing out on the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Raphinh and Jules Kounde, they will be praying Barca don’t make an 11th hour bid for their former player.