Official Market: Chelsea secures (yet another!) reinforcement for €19 million

Chelsea have officially announced the signing of Pep Chavarria from LaLiga side Rayo Vallecano. The 28-year-old left-back, reportedly costing €19 million according to the English press, has penned a contract until 2031 and will link up with his new teammates to prepare for the 2026/27 season. The Spaniard joins an extensive list of reinforcements for the Blues, now managed by Xabi Alonso.

In his first statements as a Chelsea player, the defender expressed his excitement about the new challenge. "It's a dream come true for me, as Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in the world. It's a huge opportunity, but I'm ready and I'll work hard to help the team achieve success," he stated.

Chavarria also took the opportunity to thank those who have supported him throughout his career: "There are many people who have helped me reach this moment, and I have to thank my family. They have always supported me, and today is only possible because of them."

The left-back's career began at his hometown club, UE Figueres, in the Spanish fourth division, where he made his senior debut at 18 against CF Peralada. In the summer of 2018, he moved to UE Olot in the third division, quickly establishing himself as a starter and one of the league's standout players, making 52 appearances.

In August 2020, he made the jump to the second division, signing for Zaragoza. His professional debut came the following month in a 2-2 draw with Las Palmas. After two seasons at Zaragoza, he reached the Spanish top flight, joining Rayo Vallecano in August 2022.

Over the past four years, Chavarria was a pivotal figure at Rayo, helping the club achieve historic feats, such as two consecutive eighth-place finishes in LaLiga and an appearance in a European final. Last season, he featured in 44 games, including the UEFA Conference League final, where his team was defeated by Crystal Palace.