Chelsea have identified Rayo Vallecano’s Pep Chavarría as a surprise target to replace Marc Cucurella.
Earlier this month, Cucurella ended his four-year spell at Chelsea to secure a permanent move to Real Madrid.
The Spain international’s exit has seen the Blues look for a new left-back in the market.
Xabi Alonso’s side have identified a few targets, including Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso and Leeds United’s Gabriel Gudmundsson.
The Sweden international said he’s happy with the Chelsea links and it’s a proof that he is on the right track.
Chelsea make initial contact
Pep Chavarría is another name on the Premier League side’s list to replace Marc Cucurella.
That’s according to Marca, who cover Chelsea’s interest and their efforts to sign him this summer.
The west London club have their sights set on Spain, where the 28-year-old is the top target for the left-back position.
Chelsea have already made initial contact with the parties to assess the feasibility of the operation. It’s likely they have approached both his camp and the La Liga side.
The newspaper claims the Blues are ‘considering making an official offer, which would be quite a surprise’. There’s no mention or suggestion why it would be a surprise.
Chavarría has a release clause, and the figure isn’t reported. Eslewhere, Estadio Deportivo state his clause €25m but points out other sources insist it’s €50m.
Xabi Alonso’s side can sign him by triggering this, as long as they have his approval. There are also other clubs keen on securing the Spaniard’s services.
Marca report he is handling several offers, without providing the details of the proposals, and only mention Bayer Leverkusen. The English club are aware of this and have to overcome competition to sign him.
Chavarría’s contract, value, stats and agent info
Chelsea target Pep Chavarría
Chelsea target Pep Chavarría
Last season, the Rayo Vallecano fullback played 3,519 minutes from 44 matches.
He has a contract until 2030, and Transfermarkt value him at €10m. This is the highest value of his career.
Agency AS1 represent Pep Chavarría and manage several players, including Arsenal star Piero Hincapié and Chelsea’s Dário Essugo.