Chelsea have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season with the addition of Spanish defender Pep Chavarria from LaLiga side Rayo Vallecano.

The Premier League club confirmed the transfer on Wednesday, making Chavarria their seventh signing of the current summer window.

The 28-year-old arrives as Chelsea continue to reshape their squad and add depth to the defensive department.

Chavarria is expected to fill the position previously occupied by Marc Cucurella, who completed a move to Real Madrid before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Chelsea reportedly agreed a fee of around £16.3 million for the Spanish full-back.

The new signing expressed his excitement after completing the move, describing his arrival at Stamford Bridge as a major opportunity in his career.

He also highlighted Chelsea’s status as one of the world’s biggest clubs and promised to work hard to contribute to the team’s ambitions.

Chavarria’s experience in Spanish football is expected to provide Chelsea with another option on the left side of their defence.

His arrival also gives the club additional competition within the squad as they prepare for another demanding campaign.

The transfer represents another significant move in Chelsea’s summer recruitment drive, with the club continuing to invest in players capable of strengthening different areas of the team.

For Chavarria, the move marks a new chapter after his time with Rayo Vallecano. He will now have the opportunity to test himself in English football and compete at the highest level with Chelsea.

The defender is expected to begin working with his new teammates as the club prepares for the upcoming season.