Chelsea are making frantic moves to fill the gaping void left by the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid. This urgency has brought them to Pep Chavarria, the 28-year-old left-back who is anchoring Rayo Vallecano’s defensive flank.
Since arriving in Vallecano in 2022, the Spaniard has quietly built a reliable reputation at the Madrid-based outfit. Chavarría made 44 appearances in all competitions last season as he helped his side through a hectic campaign that saw them reach the final of the Conference League. The defender is at ease playing as a conventional left-back in a back four or moving forward into a more advanced left-sided position.
The Stamford Bridge hierarchy is understood to see him as a ready-made, affordable option rather than another long-term project. Chavarria has played 125 games since joining Rayo and is under contract with the club until 2030. One report claims his release clause is in the region of £21 million, a figure Chelsea could find acceptable. However, there is competition for his signature, with Bayer Leverkusen also said to be keeping a close eye on the experienced full-back’s situation.
Jorrel Hato to Take Over Following Cucurella’s Departure
While Chelsea are looking to bolster their ranks from outside sources, the loss of Cucurella has opened up a big opportunity for Jorrel Hato among the current squad. The young Dutchman is expected to see a much greater role throughout the 2026/27 campaign. According to reports, the Blues are hopeful the talented youngster will become their starting left-back next season.
Hato’s reputation was growing when he arrived at Stamford Bridge from Ajax in August 2025, but the opening months in England were anything but simple. However, he has since earned the trust of the coaching staff. He can play comfortably anywhere across the back line, at left-back or centre-back, which gives him considerable tactical flexibility going into next season.
The club clearly believe they have one of the continent’s most promising defensive talents in the 20-year-old. If he keeps on progressing at the current rate, the decision to cash in on Cucurella could end up being remembered as the moment that allowed his replacement to truly emerge. But whatever signings the recruitment team eventually gets done, the fans will still be hopeful that the left side still feels secure when competitive matches start to bite.