Chelsea sign defender Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on five-year contract

Chelsea have signed Spanish left back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday, agreeing a deal that runs until 2031, the Premier League club said. The club did not disclose financial terms.

Chavarria progressed through Figueres, Olot and Zaragoza in the lower tiers of Spanish football before joining Rayo Vallecano in 2022. He made 125 appearances in all competitions for Rayo and played a key role in their run to the UEFA Conference League final last season.

Financial details were not released by Chelsea, but British media reported an initial fee of £16.3 million with a further £1.7 million in add-ons for the 28-year-old, equating to $22.02 million. ($1 = 0.7404 pounds) "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.

The signing increases options at left back for new Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso. It follows the departure of Spaniard Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid.

Chelsea finished 10th last season. They begin their new Premier League campaign at London rivals Fulham on August 24.