Chelsea table new bid for Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarria
· Yahoo Sports
Chelsea have stepped up their pursuit of Rayo Vallecano defender Pep Chavarria by submitting an improved offer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
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The Blues have struggled to finalise a deal for the 28-year-old despite weeks of negotiations, but talks are once again progressing between the two clubs.
Chelsea have identified Chavarria as their preferred target to replace Marc Cucurella, who joined Real Madrid earlier this summer.
The move for the Spanish full-back is reportedly spearheaded by manager Xabi Alonso. Chelsea had initially offered around £15 million to get the deal done but were turned down by Vallecano.
The numbers involved in their improved proposal are being kept under wraps, but the Blues are somewhat confident of reaching an agreement with the Spanish club.
Chavarria reportedly has a £42.4m release clause in his contract and Vallecano have been adamant that they will not sanction a deal unless it is triggered.
The Spaniard’s current contract runs until 2030, so Vallecano have enough leverage to stand their ground.
Despite that firm stance, Chelsea have no plans to activate the clause and are instead hoping to negotiate a lower fee. Both clubs are still in contact in the hope of finding common ground.
Chavarria has spent much of his career in Spain’s second division before establishing himself in La Liga.
But Vallecano are convinced his performances place him among the league’s most effective full-backs.
He made 44 appearances across all competitions for Vallecano last season, notching a goal and three assists. However, his underlying numbers are also impressive.
Chavarria helped to keep nine clean sheets and created five big chances as a full-back.
He also averaged 1.6 tackles, 4.3 ball recoveries, and 2.6 clearances per 90 minutes, while winning 55% of his ground duels.
Chelsea are eager to bring Chavarria to the Premier League and have already agreed personal terms with the Spanish full-back.
He is reportedly excited at the chance to play in the Premier League and work under Alonso at Chelsea.