Chelsea’s negotiations to sign Pep Chavarría have stalled, with Rayo Vallecano refusing to accept the club’s current proposal for the left-back.
The Blues have been in talks with the Spanish side as Xabi Alonso looks to strengthen the left side of his defence.
Chelsea’s latest offer is understood to fall short of Rayo’s valuation. The La Liga club want a package close to Chavarría’s release clause and have shown little willingness to compromise.
Reports have placed that figure at around €25million, approximately £21.5m. Chelsea would prefer to negotiate a structured agreement rather than trigger the clause directly.
The player is believed to be interested in the move, leaving the fee as the main obstacle between the clubs.
Chelsea must decide whether to meet Rayo demands
Chavarría has emerged as a target following Marc Cucurella’s departure to Real Madrid.
Jorrel Hato can cover the position, while Geovany Quenda offers another possible wing-back solution. However, neither provides the same established experience as a natural Premier League-ready left-back.
Chavarría made 40 appearances for Rayo last season and helped the club reach the Conference League final. His energy and attacking runs could suit the wing-back role in Alonso’s preferred system.
As Read Chelsea previously reported, talks had moved into a key stage earlier this month. Rayo’s tougher negotiating position has since slowed progress.
The BBC report states that Chelsea must now decide whether to improve their offer or consider other options.
There is no indication the deal has collapsed. However, Chelsea will need to move closer to Rayo’s demands before meaningful progress can resume.
With Alonso preparing for his first season at Stamford Bridge, the club cannot allow the search for defensive cover to drag through the remainder of the window.
