Barcelona midfielder admits surprise over Cucurella’s transfer to Real Madrid: ‘We did not expect it’

Barcelona midfielder admits surprise over Cucurella’s transfer to Real Madrid: ‘We did not expect it’ Barcelona midfielder Gavi has reacted to one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer after Spain teammate Marc Cucurella completed his high-profile move to Real Madrid.  The former Chelsea defender had also been linked with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in recent months, but Los Blancos moved decisively to secure his signature before their rivals could make a serious attempt. Real Madrid ultimately reached an agreement worth €55 million plus an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses, bringing the Spanish international back to La Liga.  The left-back has signed a long-term contract until 2032, underlining the club’s confidence in him as a key part of their future. The speed at which the transfer was completed caught many by surprise, including several members of the Spanish national team. Spain squad surprised by Real Madrid transfer Gavi has shared his opinion about Real Madrid’s summer signing. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) Cucurella was with Spain during the World Cup preparations when negotiations with Real Madrid reached their final stages.  Despite being surrounded by teammates on a daily basis, the defender managed to keep the operation away from public attention until the deal was practically complete. Speaking in an interview with RAC1 , Gavi admitted that the transfer was unexpected inside the national team camp and revealed that most players only discovered the news shortly before it became public. “We found out the day before, after practice. We didn’t expect it and nobody knew; he kept it very quiet.  Cucurella has signed for Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) “Lamine [Yamal] is teasing him a bit, because now he’ll be the one defending him in the Clasicos,” he revealed. Praise for Cucurella despite Real Madrid move Although Cucurella’s arrival strengthens Real Madrid, Gavi made it clear that he holds the defender in high regard and believes Real Madrid have secured a quality player. The midfielder did not allow club loyalties to influence his assessment of his international teammate and instead focused on the qualities that have made Cucurella one of the most sought-after full-backs in Europe. “I like him as a rival. He’s physical and intense. He’s a good signing for the Whites. I’m happy for him,” he concluded.