Pep Chavarria represents an unusual Chelsea signing at 28. The Rayo Vallecano left-back didn't debut in Spain's top flight until 24 and made his European bow only last October. Despite this late start, his rise appeals to a club seeking immediate impact through Marc Cucurella's departure to Real Madrid.

Former coach Jose Ramon Rodriguez witnessed Chavarria's transformation firsthand at Real Zaragoza. 'He has had to struggle a lot to get to where he has reached,' Rodriguez tells Sky Sports. The player arrived from third-tier UE Olot in 2020 but quickly showed he could perform above the Spanish second division level.

Last season, Chavarria ranked among La Liga's top dozen for crosses from open play and defensive work in his own third. His energy and wholehearted approach align with Xabi Alonso's philosophy of winning trophies now rather than developing future assets. Rodriguez emphasizes his mentality: 'He is a team player who gives 200 per cent every day.'

Questions remain about adapting to the Premier League's physical demands. Chavarria has never played abroad and managed only one goal last season despite a spectacular strike against Atletico Madrid. However, his track record of exceeding expectations suggests he could handle English football's intensity.