Chelsea nearing £16.3m deal for Rayo Vallecano's Pep Chavarria

According to BBC Sport, Chelsea are closing in on an agreement with Rayo Vallecano for defender Pep Chavarria. The Premier League side are reportedly preparing to pay around £16.3m for the player.

The deal is not yet finalised, but negotiations are understood to be at an advanced stage. Chavarria would add depth to Chelsea's defensive options as they continue to shape their squad.

Rayo Vallecano would lose a regular member of their back line, while Chelsea would gain another centre-back. Neither club has made an official announcement, and further details are expected once the transfer is completed.