Chelsea signs Pep Chavarria to replace Marc Cucurella

Chelsea has secured the signing of full-back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on a five-year contract, reportedly for £16.3 million plus add-ons. This move follows the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid earlier this summer. Chavarria, who appeared in last season's Conference League final, will compete with Jorrel Hato for the left-back position. His addition is part of Chelsea's efforts to restructure the squad under new manager Xabi Alonso, following a disappointing 2025-26 season. The club aims to balance experience and youth, after also signing several other players this summer. Chelsea will complete their pre-season preparations with a match against Real Sociedad on Saturday before starting their Premier League campaign against Fulham on August 24.

• 9:12 AMYahoo Sports — Chelsea sign Marc Cucurella replacement as full-back Pep Chavarria arrives on five-year deal