Chelsea has opened talks with Rayo Vallecano over a move for left back Pep Chavarria as manager Xabi Alonso seeks reinforcements in defence. The 28-year-old defender emerged as a target following Marc Cucurella's £52 million switch to Real Madrid.
According to sources, the west London club has begun formal negotiations with Rayo about bringing Chavarria to Stamford Bridge. He has four years remaining on his contract with the Spanish side, who reached last season's Conference League final.
Chavarria made 44 appearances for Rayo across all competitions last term as they finished eighth in La Liga. The defender can operate as a left back or wing back, giving Alonso tactical flexibility on the flank.
His potential arrival would complement Tosin Hato, who joined Chelsea from Ajax last summer for £37 million. Hato struggled initially at the club but showed marked improvement in the second half of his debut campaign, impressing the board.
The Nigerian-Dutch defender is expected to become Chelsea's primary option on the left side of defence following Cucurella's departure. Chavarria would serve as an additional alternative in that position should the transfer go through.
Chelsea have already secured Marco Palestra from Atalanta, though official confirmation remains pending. The club hopes to complete Chavarria's signing as the second major addition of the Alonso era, not counting any deals arranged before his appointment.
Alonso took charge at Stamford Bridge recently and has moved quickly to reshape the squad. The manager inherited a side requiring defensive adjustments after Cucurella's unexpected exit to Madrid.
