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Despite a 2-1 pre-season defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, optimism at Chelsea is high ahead of the new season. Xabi Alonso is at the wheel, building an impressive squad, with their opening fixture against Fulham on August 24. The Blues have been busy in the transfer market so far, and this looks to continue with Matteo Moretto reporting that Xabi Alonso’s team are set to sign Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano for £21.3 million plus bonuses. Chelsea Building Towards Successful 2026/27 Season Alonso Close to Next Signing Xabi Alonso has already strengthened the Stamford Bridge squad with the signings of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a club record £117 million and the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. Danny Welbeck has also joined Chelsea, with Jordan Henderson set to join him. Marco Palestra and Geovany Quenda are also new recruits at Stamford Bridge. Another story making headlines is that Mykhailo Mudryk has been cleared to return for the Blues. Read More: Xabi Alonso ‘Really Impressed’ With ‘Very Complete’ Chelsea Youngster Pep Chavarria of Rayo Vallecano has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge all summer; however, it appears a fee has been difficult to agree on, but it finally seems like the Blues have made a breakthrough in their pursuit of a new left back after the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid. Blues Close In on Pep Chavarria Deal It remains to be seen what formation Xabi Alonso will use at Stamford Bridge this coming season. Despite the emergence of Jorrel Hato, the departure of Cucurella has left a void in the squad. According to Moretto, Chavarria will move to Stamford Bridge for £21.3 million plus bonuses, making him Rayo’s most expensive sale ever. The deal is expected to be announced imminently once the club finalises the remaining details. Read More: Chelsea to Welcome Back Player ‘Like a New Signing’ For Pre-Season Chavarria is known for his electric pace and energetic style of play. He’s adept at breaking opposition lines with his runs and overlapping, giving his winger another outlet. He will look to get crosses into the box, which will be music to the ears of Joao Pedro, who looks set to sign an improved deal and new signing Welbeck. He’s impressive at tracking back and facing 1v1 situations. In a back five, he will have a defender to cover his forward runs, but if in a back four, he will need to get his forward ventures timed better. Yes, the 28-year-old has improvements to make, but he will bring a lot to Stamford Bridge should the deal be completed as expected. Featured Image Credit: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire