Rayo Vallecano has completed the sale of left-back Pep Chavarria to Chelsea for €25 million (£21.4M), according to Marca. This deal surpasses the club’s previous record sale of €15M for striker Álvaro García in 2022. Chavarria, 28, signed with Rayo Vallecano until 2030 and leaves after a season where he made 44 appearances, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
What does this record mean for Rayo Vallecano?
Chavarria’s sale marks a financial milestone for the club, which finished the 2025 season in 13th place in La Liga with 35 points (8 wins, 11 draws, 12 losses). Despite scoring 29 goals and conceding 38, finishing 44 points behind leaders Barcelona, the transfer fee could be crucial for strengthening the squad ahead of the next campaign.
Why did Chavarria choose Chelsea?
Chavarria preferred Chelsea over Bayer Leverkusen, drawn by the chance to work under compatriot Xabi Alonso. The manager sees the left-back as an ideal fit for his 3-4-3 system, and the player is already in England to sign a long-term deal at Stamford Bridge.
What’s next for Rayo Vallecano?
With Rayo Vallecano’s next match scheduled for February 28, 2027, against Racing Santander, the club must now find a replacement for Chavarria. Meanwhile, Chelsea remains active in the transfer market, with six signings confirmed so far, including Valentin Barco and Geovany Quenda.
