Chelsea are nearing an agreement to sign Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarria, according to TEAMtalk. The move comes after Alejandro Grimaldo opted to join Atletico Madrid, despite being a priority target for new Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso.
Alonso had hoped to reunite with Grimaldo, with whom he previously worked at Bayer Leverkusen, but the Spanish international ultimately preferred a return to his homeland, signing a five-year contract with Atletico. This prompted Chelsea to quickly identify alternative options to strengthen the left-back position, alongside highly-rated youngster Jorrel Hato.
Chavarria, 28, has spent the last four seasons with Rayo Vallecano, making 44 appearances across all competitions in the 2025/26 season and contributing with one goal and three assists. He has emerged as Chelsea’s preferred choice to add experience to a young squad.
TEAMtalk reports that Chavarria has already agreed personal terms with the Blues, and negotiations between the two clubs are at an advanced stage. Chelsea are hopeful of finalizing the transfer before the weekend, as Alonso continues to reshape the squad for the upcoming campaign. The club are seeking experienced players who can guide their developing talent, and Chavarria is seen as someone who can immediately compete for a starting role and provide leadership.
While Hato is considered a promising young defender, Chelsea believe adding a proven player like Chavarria will provide greater balance to the team as they prepare to compete on multiple fronts. The Blues also reportedly made an enquiry about Leeds United’s Gabriel Gudmundsson, but received a swift negative response. The pursuit of Chavarria indicates a swift and decisive response from Chelsea following the disappointment of missing out on Grimaldo.
