Atletico Madrid are looking to capitalise on the turmoil at Chelsea and have reportedly made Marc Cucurella their top target ahead of this summer's transfer window.
Cucurella fuelled speculation over his long-term Chelsea future after a recent public interview saw the left-back criticise the club's lack of direction under the BlueCo ownership.
Vocal about his dismay at Enzo Maresca's departure at the start of the year, Cucurella clearly feels more is needed for the Blues' hierarchy to oversee a successful tenure following their takeover from Roman Abramovich in May 2022.
And looking to take advantage of the Spaniard’s obvious unhappiness, Atletico Madrid are believed to be circling in preparation for the summer window, irrespective of Chelsea's strong stance that the full-back is not for sale.
Atletico Madrid make Marc Cucurella their top summer transfer target
Joining from Brighton in 2022, Cucurella has been one of the Blues' best, and most consistent, players. As a result of his tenaciousness and impressive injury record, the full-back has remained one of the first names on the team sheet.
However, despite Chelsea agreeing a contract extension until 2028 with Cucurella only last August, the 27-year-old is quickly becoming one of Europe's most sought after defenders.
According to a recent report from AS, Atletico Madrid believe Chelsea's number three 'has Diego Simeone's DNA' and would be perfect at left-back; a position Los Colchoneros have struggled with ever since Filipe Luis left the club in 2019.
Chelsea's refusal to part ways with the Spain international makes Atletico Madrid's hopes of signing him almost impossible, though.
World Cup success for Spain could see Cucurella favour La Liga move
After famously beating England to lift the European Championships in 2024, Cucurella is nailed on to be Luis de la Fuente's starting left-back again at this year's World Cup in America.
And should La Roja have another successful major international tournament and be crowned world champions, Cucurella's stock in his home country will sky rocket and that could see him tempted by a move to La Liga.
The defender's potential World Cup success with Spain, combined with his recent rant, could push Chelsea's ownership towards considering a sale. That is not a scenario fans will welcome, but given how this season has unfolded, many may understand it.
Since his move from the south coast, Cucurella has featured in 154 matches, in all competitions, scoring nine goals and registering 12 assists along the way.