Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Pep Chavarria as they search for a replacement for Marc Cucurella.
The Rayo Vallecano left-back has given his approval to the move, with Fabrizio Romano reporting the player is keen to work under Xabi Alonso.
The Spaniard’s exit created the vacancy. Cucurella left for Real Madrid earlier in the window in a deal worth around €60m, stripping Alonso of a dependable option on the left.
Dutchman Jorrel Hato has stepped into a bigger role, but the club want further cover.
Chavarria was not their first choice, however. Reports suggest Chelsea initially wanted Alejandro Grimaldo, only for the Bayer Leverkusen full-back to reject a reunion with Alonso. Attention then turned to the Rayo defender.
Chelsea agree personal terms with Cucurella replacement
His profile appealed to the new head coach. Alonso values Chavarria’s ability to operate both as a traditional left-back and as an attacking wing-back, a flexibility central to his system. The pair are familiar too, having faced each other in La Liga.
The 28-year-old earned the interest with a strong campaign. Chavarria made 44 appearances in all competitions last season, helping Rayo Vallecano reach the UEFA Conference League final, where they lost narrowly to Crystal Palace.
Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Pep Chavarría as new left back, green light from the player.
Chavarría wants Chelsea and wants to play for Xabi Alonso.
Club to club talks underway with Rayo Vallecano and deal close.
A full agreement between the clubs remains outstanding, though. Chelsea have already seen an opening bid of around €9m rejected, with Rayo valuing the defender more highly.
His contract, which runs until 2030, strengthens their negotiating position considerably.
The move also marks a shift in strategy. Chelsea’s owners have typically pursued young prospects, but Chavarria represents a more experienced, ready-made addition.
Some observers have questioned whether a player without Premier League or Champions League experience can adapt.
Talks are expected to continue in the coming days. Should the clubs agree a fee, Chavarria could yet become the first signing of Alonso’s Stamford Bridge reign.
Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Pep Chavarría as new left back, green light from the player.
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