Chelsea sign Spanish defender Chavarria on five-year deal
London, Aug 12
Premier League club Chelsea has announced the signing of Spanish player Pep Chavarria from La Liga side Rayo Vallecano, with the 28-year-old penning a five-year contract.
The Spaniard has signed a contract at Stamford Bridge until 2031 and will begin working with his new team-mates at Cobham as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign.
'I'm so excited to get started,' the 28-year-old said in an official statement. '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.
'There are a lot of people who have helped me get to this moment, and I have to thank my family. They have always supported me and today is only possible because of them,' he added.
Chavarria began his career with his hometown side UE Figueres, then in the Spanish fourth tier. He made his senior debut at 18 years old against CF Peralada and over the next two seasons evolved into an attack-minded left-back.
In 2018, he signed with third-tier club UE Olot and instantly established himself as a starter and one of the division's standout players.
He made 52 appearances for Olot before departing for Real Zaragoza, then in the Spanish second tier, in August 2020. Chavarria's professional debut came the following month, starting a 2-2 draw with Las Palmas.
Once again, Chavarria adapted to the step up. He spent two full seasons with Zaragoza before reaching the top flight by signing for Rayo in August 2022.
Over the past four years, Chavarria has been a mainstay on the Rayo side. He has helped the club make history, with back-to-back eighth-place finishes recorded in La Liga over the past two seasons and a European final reached.
The Spaniard featured 44 times last term as Rayo claimed a place in the UEFA Conference League final, where they were narrowly beaten by Crystal Palace.
Chelsea, who had a poor last season, in which they finished in 10th position, will open their 2026-27 Premier League campaign with a London derby against Fulham on August 24.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally Chelsea are signing someone who isn't a teenager with zero experience! A 28-year-old defender who's been consistent in La Liga is exactly what we need after that disastrous 10th place finish last season. Good business. 👍
The Conference League final run with Rayo was impressive - they really pushed Crystal Palace. Seems like a player who's used to overperforming. Chelsea need that mentality after such a poor season. Looking forward to seeing how he does against Fulham in the opener!
While I'm happy for the player, I have to question Chelsea's strategy here. They've made so many signings in recent years and most haven't worked out. A 28-year-old from a mid-table La Liga side feels like a panic buy after missing out on bigger targets. Hope I'm wrong, but this could end up like the Cucurella situation all over again.
That journey from the fourth tier to the Premier League is genuinely inspiring. ✨ These are the kind of players who bring real hunger and determination to a squad - not just another overpaid superstar looking for a payday. Wish him all the best at Stamford Bridge!
Chelsea finished 10th and are signing defenders from mid-table Spanish clubs instead of addressing their real issues - midfield creativity and goalscoring. This won't move the needle. They need a proper rebuild, not another squad player. Just my honest opinion.
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