Chelsea have strengthened their defensive options with the signing of Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano, agreeing a five-year deal for the left-sided defender. The transfer, finalised last week, is reported to be worth £16.3 million with a further £1.7 million in potential add-ons.
The 28-year-old arrives at Stamford Bridge as part of an ongoing squad rebuild under new head coach Xabi Alonso, who has prioritised bringing in experienced figures this summer. Chavarria is expected to compete with Jorrel Hato for the starting left-back role following Marc Cucurella's move to Real Madrid earlier in the transfer window.
Despite his age, Chavarria has relatively limited experience at the top level, having spent just four seasons in a major European top flight since joining Rayo Vallecano from Segunda Division club Real Zaragoza in 2022. He featured for Rayo in last season's Conference League final defeat to Crystal Palace, giving him experience of high-pressure European fixtures.
Speaking after his move was confirmed, Chavarria expressed his enthusiasm for the switch to west London.