Chelsea step up Chavarria pursuit as Blues make Rayo Vallecano defender top transfer target | OneFootball

Chelsea have made Rayo Vallecano full-back Pep Chavarria their leading defensive target as talks between the two clubs continue over a summer transfer.

According to The Athletic, The Blues have been monitoring the Spaniard for several weeks and remain in negotiations with the La Liga side, although an agreement over a transfer fee has yet to be reached.

Chelsea have considered alternative options during the window, but Chavarria has emerged as the club’s preferred choice as they continue reshaping their squad under Xabi Alonso.

The 28-year-old enjoyed an impressive 2025-26 campaign with Rayo Vallecano, establishing himself as one of La Liga’s most consistent left-backs through his defensive reliability and ability to contribute in attack.

His performances have attracted interest from several clubs, but Chelsea are currently leading the race as they seek greater competition and depth in the full-back positions.

Chelsea have also been linked with Bayer Leverkusen youngster Kerim Alajbegovic.

However, the highly rated 18-year-old is instead expected to join Juventus, having been viewed as a potential signing for sister club Strasbourg rather than Chelsea’s first team.

Meanwhile, speculation surrounding a move for Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa has cooled in recent days.

Chelsea are understood to be satisfied with their goalkeeping depth, with academy graduate Teddy Sharman-Lowe impressing during pre-season and United States international Gaga Slonina also competing for a place in the senior squad.

Outgoings remain a significant focus at Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes.

Chelsea currently have six senior strikers and are aiming to reduce that number before the start of the new campaign.

Joao Pedro remains firmly in the club’s plans and is expected to sign a new contract, while Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu continue to attract interest from clubs in England and overseas.

The Blues are also prepared to listen to offers for several defenders as Alonso trims his squad.

Como have already agreed a deal for Trevoh Chalobah, while Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi are among the players available for transfer.

Chelsea are also expected to send promising youngsters Mamadou Sarr and Aaron Anselmino out on loan to continue their development.

Securing Chavarria would therefore represent another important step in Chelsea’s squad rebuild, with the experienced Spaniard viewed as the club’s priority option to strengthen the left side of the defence before the Premier League season gets underway.