Chelsea are nearing an agreement with Rayo Vallecano for defender Pep Chavarria. The Blues have already agreed personal terms with the 28-year-old and are aiming for a fee below £20m.
There is increasing confidence from all parties that a deal will be struck. Left-back Chavarria is a key target for new manager Xabi Alonso, who faced him during his time managing Real Madrid last season.
Talks began at the end of June when Chelsea's initial £15m bid was rejected. Negotiations became protracted amid a belief at Chelsea that Rayo were raising their valuation, reportedly asking for as much as the full £42.8m release clause at one stage. Chavarria has made it clear to Rayo that he wishes to move to Stamford Bridge.
Chavarria's potential arrival, alongside new right-back Marco Palestra, could allow Alonso to replicate the wing-back system that helped Bayer Leverkusen win the Bundesliga title in 2024. This signing would also add depth to the left-back position following Marc Cucurella's move to Real Madrid in June.