---
title: "Chelsea set to bid £21 million for Marc Cucurella replacement"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-pep-chavarria-transfer-bid-marc-cucurella-replacement/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Barnaby Lane"
section: "Chelsea Transfer Rumours"
published: "2026-07-14T19:11:00Z"
modified: "2026-07-14T19:11:00Z"
---

# Chelsea set to bid £21 million for Marc Cucurella replacement

[Chelsea](https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours/) have been forced into the market for a new left-sided defender after suffering an unexpected setback this summer.

Marc Cucurella, who had established himself as one of the club’s most important players in recent seasons, completed a surprise move to Real Madrid, leaving Xabi Alonso with a significant gap to fill.

While Jorrel Hato can operate from the left, the Dutchman is viewed more as a left-sided centre-back rather than a natural wing-back, an important distinction given Alonso is expected to favour a back-five system at Stamford Bridge.

Now, Chelsea appear ready to accelerate their search for a replacement.

## **Chelsea Preparing Fresh Pep Chavarría Bid**

[According to MARCA](https://www.marca.com/futbol/rayo/2026/07/13/chelsea-acelera-pep-chavarria.html#google_vignette), Chelsea are [preparing a new offer for Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarría](https://chelseanews.com/blog/chelsea-transfer-news-pep-chavarria-3/) as they look to complete a deal for Alonso’s preferred left-sided option.

The Blues are expected to submit a proposal worth around €25 million (£21m), including bonuses, with negotiations between the two clubs ongoing.

Chavarría has already reached a personal agreement with Chelsea and is reportedly keen to make the move to the Premier League, while the defender has even taken steps to help facilitate a transfer by accepting a lower salary.

The 27-year-old is believed to be a specific request from Alonso, who values his ability to operate in multiple defensive roles and believes he would suit his tactical approach.

Rayo Vallecano are holding out for a package closer to €25m without add-ons, although president Raúl Martín Presa is directly involved in negotiations and a compromise could still be reached.

The Spanish club previously rejected an opening Chelsea offer worth below €15m, but with the player pushing for a move and the Blues returning with an improved bid, talks are expected to continue.