Chelsea have €9m bid rejected for Pep Chavarria by Rayo Vallecano | OneFootball

Chelsea are keen to sign a left-back after losing Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid in a €50 million deal.

They are targeting Rayo Vallecano star Pep Chavarria as a replacement for Cucurella.

However, their opening €9m bid for the left-back was rejected, according to Mundo Deportivo.

Chavarria has four years left on his contract, putting Vallecano in a strong position to command a higher fee.

Chavarria could be a good signing for Chelsea

Chavarria produced several dazzling displays for Vallecano last season, helping them reach the Europa Conference League final, where they lost to Crystal Palace.

The 28-year-old made 44 appearances across all competitions, bagging one goal and three goal assists.

Chavarria excels in ground duels, having ranked among the best full-backs for possession won and defensive duels won in La Liga last term. However, he lacks a strong aerial presence.

His ability to play at left-back and wing-back makes him well-suited for Chelsea, with manager Xabi Alonso considering using a three-man defence next term.

Chavarria would face strong competition from Jorrel Hato for a starting berth. The Dutchman will play a ‘bigger role‘ at Chelsea next season.

Alongside their pursuit of Chavarria, the Blues are on the verge of wrapping up a deal for Italian right-back Marco Palestra.

They are also looking to strengthen the centre-back, midfield and forward positions.

Stats from transfermarkt.com.