Getafe’s hard-line message on Marc Cucurella has been re-iterated – on a day of intrigue in Madrid.

Club president Angel Torres continues to demand the release clause of about £15.4 million for the Albion target.

The future of the Olympic international remained unclear last night while the Seagulls maintained a dignified silence.

But there is no doubt they retain an interest in adding him to their Premier League squad.

Some close followers of Getafe appear to believe he will leave this week.

They were placed on red alert when Cucurella was absent as the squad walked out for a training session yesterday morning which was open to the media.

That sparked suggestions among watching reporters he could have other business to attend to.

It was later revealed Cucurella had worked alone.

The explanation was that Getafe wanted to take good care of him after his recent exertions at the Olympics followed by an immediate return to club duty while still on the emotional high of winning a silver medal.

Reporter Gemma Santos told listeners to Cadena Cope radio: “They are rubbing their hands together in Brighton, for example, as to whether (his absence from the group) indicates an imminent departure for Cucu over there, that Getafe had accepted an offer.

“The club have informed us officially he trained but is doing preventative work.

“Remember he hardly had any holidays.

“He went to the Olympics and then, in a mutual decision with the club, decided to return very quickly to work with Getafe.”

She added: “Remember – Angel Torres’s stance in respect of the future of Cucurella: For Cucu to go, pay the 18 million (Euros) release clause or he doesn’t leave. That is what Angel Torres says.”

There was also clarification that Cucurella’s working hours had been reduced to give more family time due to the birth of his second child on Monday.

It would appear possible a hectic period at home could also be a factor in the timing of any move away from Getafe.

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Cucurella went on as sub during the second half of Getafe's defeat at Valencia last Friday.

They do not play again until Monday, when they host Sevilla.