Chelsea have signed Spanish left-back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on a deal until 2031, the Premier League club said on Wednesday.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed, but British media reported that Chelsea had paid an initial £16.3 million ($22.02 million), with a further £1.7 million in add-ons, for the 28-year-old.
“This is a dream for me as Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the world. It is a big opportunity, but I am prepared and will work hard to help the team achieve success,” Chavarria said in a statement.
Chavarria played for Figueres, Olot and Zaragoza in the lower tiers of Spanish football before joining Rayo Vallecano in 2022. He made 125 appearances in all competitions and played a key role in their run to the UEFA Conference League final last season.
The defender’s signing boosts new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso’s options at left-back following the departure of Spaniard Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid.
Chelsea, who finished 10th last season, begin their new Premier League campaign at London rivals Fulham on August 24.
