Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Valentin Barco, a versatile midfielder who has already courted controversy by clashing with Jude Bellingham during the World Cup.
Barco was part of the Argentina squad that finished runners-up to Spain at the 2026 World Cup, making his only appearance as a substitute in the final Group J fixture against Jordan.
Celebration sparked Bellingham clash
Following Argentina's semi-final win over England, videos circulated showing Bellingham seemingly striking Barco on the back of the head without provocation as the new Chelsea signing joined teammates on the pitch. The pair exchanged words before players from both sides intervened.
New footage suggests the incident stemmed from Barco running onto the pitch after Argentina's late goals, away from the rest of the squad, and celebrating enthusiastically in front of the England players.
No disciplinary action for Bellingham
Despite the attention the clash attracted, Bellingham faced no retrospective disciplinary action. Chelsea's failure to qualify for the Champions League means the two players will not meet next season.
Barco, who previously had a spell at Brighton, becomes the latest arrival at Stamford Bridge during a busy summer under new head coach Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea's busy transfer window
Danny Welbeck's move from Brighton was announced on Saturday, following Maxence Lacroix's switch from Crystal Palace.
Deals for Dastan Satpaev, Denner, Geovany Quenda and Emmanuel Emegha have been finalised, while Marco Palestra has arrived from Italy to compete for the right-back spot.
Chelsea's biggest signing so far is Morgan Rogers, who joined from Aston Villa for £117m, making the England international the most expensive British player in history.
