Marc Cucurella believes long-term deal can bring best out of him at Chelsea

Marc Cucurella believes his six-year contract can bring out his best football at Chelsea.

The £60million recruit was handed a long-term deal on his switch from Brighton, which will take him through the bulk of his twenties at Stamford Bridge.

The 24-year-old revealed that show of faith by Chelsea’s new owners offered a confidence boost before he hit the ground running in west London.

Chelsea’s new chiefs are understood to want to tie down home grown England stars Reece James and Mason Mount to similar extended deals.

Owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital are determined to set Chelsea up for a robust future this summer and are thought to view new long-term contracts as vital to that planning.

And new signing Cucurella revealed he relished the opportunity to commit to Chelsea long-term.

Asked about that extended contract, Cucurella replied: “Well I think maybe it’s a long time, but maybe that will allow me to play my best football at the club.

“It’s good because I’m not pressured, in my mind, it’s not like it’s a six-month deal or something; there’s a chance to play for the team and enjoy my football.

“Of course a contract is only paper, but I’ve come here to stay for many more years.”

Cucurella revealed Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has tracked him since his Barcelona academy days, admitting his surprise that the Blues manager had followed his career so closely.

“I’m surprised and I was very happy, he said he saw me when I was playing in Barcelona academy,” said Cucurella.

“And I’m very surprised he’s a big fan. He told me I need to work hard now and that he’s very happy to have me here. Chelsea have given me this opportunity and I need to work hard to meet that.

“This is a big responsibility for me, but I’m happy because