Chelsea have completed the signing of Rayo Vallecano left‑back Pep Chavarria.
Chavarria featured in 44 matches across all competitions last season, recording a goal and three assists, and emerged as one of Spain’s most sought‑after wing‑backs.
The acquisition fills the vacancy left by Marc Cucurella, who departed for Real Madrid in a £51.8 million transfer earlier this summer.
Personal terms were agreed in advance, and the clubs sealed a deal valued at approximately €25 million plus bonuses, marking the most lucrative sale in Rayo’s history.
Rayo relaxed its original demand, accepting a fee well below the player’s €50 million release clause.
Although Bayer Leverkusen expressed strong interest, Chavarria opted for a Premier League move to work under compatriot Xabi Alonso, whose preferred 3‑4‑3 formation aligns with his skill set.
He is expected to sign a long‑term contract at Stamford Bridge, while his existing agreement with Rayo runs until June 2030.
Chelsea’s transfer activity this window also includes the arrivals of Morgan Rogers, Maxence Lacroix, Marco Palestra, Danny Welbeck, Valentin Barco and winger Geovany Quenda.
Alonso acknowledged the hectic market, stressing the need for balance across positions to assemble a complete and competitive squad.
