Who is Pep Chavarria? Chelsea's New Left-Back Signing to Replace Marc Cucurella
Chelsea continues its busy summer transfer activity under BlueCo ownership, bringing in several new faces. After letting Marc Cucurella leave for Real Madrid and Andrey Santos move to Manchester United, the Blues had only one natural left-back, Jorrel Hato, at the start of preseason. That changed with the addition of Pep Chavarria, a 28-year-old defender from Spain’s La Liga.
Who is Pep Chavarria?
Currently playing for Rayo Vallecano, Chavarria started his career in Spain’s lower leagues with UE Figueres and UE Olot before Real Zaragoza picked him up in 2020 for €250,000. In 2022, Rayo Vallecano signed him for €1.8 million. Over two seasons there, he has played 67 league matches, accumulating 5,264 minutes in La Liga. His role and influence at Rayo have steadily increased since his first season, when he only made 356 league minutes.
Choosing a 28-year-old like Chavarria seems different from Chelsea’s usual approach of signing young prospects with resale value. Still, his style offers a fresh option for the left-back position.
Playing Style and Strengths
Unlike Marc Cucurella, known for his attacking runs, Chavarria leans more toward defense. He excels at regaining possession and moving the ball forward either by passing or dribbling. Last season, he was 17th among La Liga defenders for ground duels won and 18th for progressive carries. His progressive passing ranks him in the 75th percentile compared to European full-backs.
Chavarria also attempts many crosses, ranking eighth in La Liga for crosses tried last season. Yet, his completion rate was just 16.5%, the lowest among the top 20 crossers, showing room for improvement in delivery.
Transfer Fee and Contract Details
Reports differ on the exact transfer fee. English sources like David Ornstein of The Athletic say no deal is finalized, but Spanish media such as Marca suggest the fee will be around €25 million ($28.8m/£21.4m), potentially a record sale for Rayo Vallecano. Ben Jacobs from GiveMeSport mentions an initial £12.9 million (€15 million) bid was rejected and that the player’s release clause is €50 million, which was not considered during negotiations.
Personal terms have been settled, though contract length and salary details remain undisclosed.
Notable Moment: Goal vs Atletico Madrid
Chavarria isn’t known for scoring, having netted only twice for Rayo across four seasons. One memorable goal came on September 24, 2025, when he scored a stunning 35-yard strike against Atletico Madrid in first-half stoppage time, equalizing the game 1-1 just before halftime.
