Chelsea have been told by Rayo Vallecano that they must pay Pep Chavarria's £21.5 million release clause in full if they want to sign the left-back, according to reports. The Blues are in the market for a new defender after selling Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid, with manager Xabi Alonso identifying Chavarria as his top target.
Chavarria Deal Stalls Over Release Clause
Negotiations between Chelsea and Vallecano are not progressing well after the Premier League club's opening offer of €9 million (£7.75 million) plus add-ons was swiftly rejected. BBC Sport reports that Vallecano insist they will not sell unless the release clause is triggered, meaning Chelsea would need to nearly triple their initial bid.
Chavarria, 28, helped Vallecano reach the UEFA Conference League final last season, where they were beaten by Crystal Palace. He is said to be keen on the move to Chelsea, where Jorrel Hato is expected to be first-choice left-back, offering cover and experience to a side that slumped to 10th in the Premier League last season.
Financial Constraints Force Cautious Spending
Chelsea have been fined again for breaking UEFA's financial rules and have no European football this season, so they must be cautious with their spending this summer. Todd Boehly has already spent over £100 million on new signings this transfer window but has recouped £65 million by selling Cucurella and Tyrique George to Everton.
More departures may be needed to fund a move for a new centre-back, with Palace vice-captain Maxence Lacroix and Como's Jacobo Ramon on Alonso's shortlist.
Chelsea Open to Selling Alejandro Garnacho
It is also reported that Chelsea are very much open to selling Alejandro Garnacho, just one year after his £40 million switch from Manchester United. The winger, who has interest from Roma, endured a miserable debut season in west London, recording just one goal and four assists in 24 Premier League appearances.
Alonso's view on the Argentine is not known, but it is said that Chelsea will only consider selling the 22-year-old permanently, with a loan exit ruled out.
