Chelsea are close to finalizing a deal with Rayo Vallecano for defender Pep Chavarria. The Blues have already agreed personal terms with the 28-year-old and are now negotiating a transfer fee estimated at around £16.3 million plus additional add-ons. Confidence is growing among all parties that a deal will soon be completed.
Chavarria, a left-back, is a key target for Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso, who faced him while managing Real Madrid last season.
It has been nearly a month since Chelsea’s initial offer of £15 million was rejected by Rayo Vallecano, who entered negotiations at the end of June.
The process has been lengthy, with reports suggesting Rayo attempted to increase their valuation, at one point asking for the full £42.8 million release clause.
Chavarria has expressed his desire to join Chelsea, having made it clear to Rayo — who finished the season with a loss to Crystal Palace in the Conference League final — that he wants to move to Stamford Bridge.
