Manchester City actually tried to sign Marc Cucurella in January – although Chelsea rejected their offer.

That is according to Fabrizio Romano.

So, what was said about Marc Cucurella and Manchester City? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well, the Citizens actually tried to sign the Spaniard before he completed a £63m move to Chelsea in August 2022, as revealed by The Athletic.

Pep Guardiola’s interest seemingly remained even after Cucurella moved to Stamford Bridge, as it has now been revealed that the 52-year-old made another attempt to get him just months later.

Speaking on YouTube, Romano said: “For Marc Cucurella, there was something even in January. From what I was told, and this is exclusive information – something behind the scenes – in January 2023, Manchester City secretly presented a proposal for Cucurella.

“It was a loan with a buy option. It was rejected by Chelsea.”

Photo by DANIEL LEAL/AFP via Getty Images

Clearly, a lot changed in regards to Chelsea’s feelings about Cucurella within just over six months.

The Spain international is now no longer wanted at Chelsea – and came close to joining Manchester United on loan this summer.

In fact – according to The Athletic – Cucurella himself is shocked to still be at Chelsea, and was convinced that the Blues would sell him this summer.

Chelsea were right to ignore Manchester City’s Marc Cucurella bid

While some might think Chelsea were foolish to reject Manchester City’s offer, given the fact the Blues now want to offload Cucurella, we believe it was the right decision.

A loan with an option to buy would have effectively given Guardiola a trial period with the 25-year-old.

Had Cucurella struggled at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City would have been able to simply send him back to Stamford Bridge, with his value taking a hit along the way.

Photo by Jacques Feeney/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

It would have been a different story if the Citizens offered an obligation to buy.

Now, with Ben Chilwell and Ian Maatsen seemingly ahead of Cucurella in the pecking order, Chelsea must find a permanent buyer before the left-back’s value drops even more.