Inside track from Spain 

Who is Rayo Vallecano's 28-year-old left-back Pep Chavarría who is wanted by Chelsea?

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Chelsea’s recent transfer strategy, which has been centred around bringing in an abundance of young talent, seeing which players explode, and trying to sell players on for profits, came under intense scrutiny last season. On the pitch itself, the Blues collapsed – eventually finishing 10th in the Premier League and missing out on European football altogether. Multiple reports suggest that the West London club will now pivot their approach this summer to bring in some more experienced stars to aid the young group.

One player who fits into this category, but may be fairly unknown to many Premier League fans is Rayo Vallecano’s 28-year-old full-back Pep Chavarría. Chelsea are reportedly in club to club talks with Vallecano, with initial contact made with the player who is thought to be keen on the move. He has a current market value of €10 million. With expert insight from our team in Spain, we bring you more on Chavarría, what kind of player he is, and what he could bring to Stamford Bridge.

What kind of player is Pep Chavarría?

Iván Fuente is Transfermarkt’s top Content Manager in Spain. He tells us more about Chavarría: “He’s intense defensively and tries to anticipate the game and play on the front foot. He’s physically strong, fast, and also likes to get involved in the attack.” However, Fuente admitted he is shocked to see the full-back being linked to a club like Chelsea. “I’ve been very surprised [at Chelsea’s interest]. He’s a good fullback, but I’m not sure his level is high enough for a team with Chelsea’s aspirations.” Chavarría arrived at Vallecano from Real Zaragoza for €1.8m in 2022, and has gone on to 125 appearances for the club, scoring two and assisting eight.

Asked whether he thinks he will succeed in the Premier League, Fuente said: “I think he could do a good job in the Premier League, but I really do have my doubts about whether he’ll be able to perform at a club as demanding as Chelsea. On the other hand, the fact that Xabi Alonso has asked for him should give us some assurance about his ability.” Alonso has already lost one countryman at left-back, with Marc Cucurella joining Real Madrid, but is now looking to recruit another. Can Chavarría add some much needed experience to Chelsea’s back line or will he prove to not be at the level required? Only time will tell.

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