Chelsea clear final hurdle in Pep Chavarría transfer after medical permission granted

Chelsea are on the verge of completing the signing of Pep Chavarría after receiving permission for the defender to undergo his medical, with all key documentation between the clubs now finalised.

FootballPlace revealed on 2 August that Chelsea had reached an agreement with Rayo Vallecano to sign the Spanish left-back in a deal worth €25 million plus performance-related bonuses. The transfer has now moved into its final stages, with personal terms already agreed and the medical expected to take place imminently.

Barring any unforeseen issues, the 28-year-old will become Chelsea's latest summer signing.

Chelsea have worked quickly to conclude negotiations after identifying Chavarría as their preferred replacement for Marc Cucurella.

The Blues successfully negotiated a package significantly below the defender's €50m release clause despite Rayo Vallecano tying him to a new contract until 2030 only last year.

With the paperwork between the clubs now completed, Chelsea have received permission for the player to undergo his medical before the transfer is formally announced.

There are no remaining issues over the player's contract.

FootballPlace understands Chavarría has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea, meaning the medical represents the final major step before the move is officially completed.

The defender is expected to join Xavi Alonso's squad immediately after the formalities are concluded as Chelsea continue strengthening ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Chavarría arrives in west London following the best season of his career.

The Spaniard made 44 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign, contributing one goal and three assists while helping Rayo Vallecano reach the UEFA Conference League final.

His consistent performances attracted interest from several clubs across Europe, but Chelsea moved decisively to secure his signature.

The signing is expected to fill the void left by Marc Cucurella following the Spain international's move to Real Madrid earlier this summer.

Key points

With the paperwork completed and personal terms in place, Chavarría is now expected to undergo his medical before Chelsea formally announce the transfer.

Unless any unexpected issues arise during the medical process, the defender will become another addition to Xabi Alonso's squad as preparations continue for the new season.