Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Valentin Barco, the Argentina defender who infuriated England fans during the World Cup semi-final, as manager Xabi Alonso continues a major squad rebuild.
Barco set to join from Strasbourg
The 22-year-old left-back is expected to complete his move to Stamford Bridge within days, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reporting all documents are signed. Barco joined Brighton from Boca Juniors two years ago but made only six Premier League appearances before moving to Strasbourg. After 18 months in Ligue 1, he is now on the move again.
Barco will likely face a hostile reception from opposition fans due to his role in England's World Cup exit. After Enzo Fernandez equalised in a fractious semi-final, Barco, a non-playing substitute, ran onto the pitch and goaded several England players, including Jude Bellingham. After Lautaro Martinez scored a late winner, Bellingham confronted Barco, slapping him and gesturing angrily.
Alonso's summer overhaul
Chelsea's recruitment drive has accelerated after a chaotic campaign that saw them fail to qualify for Europe. Enzo Maresca departed in January, and his replacement Liam Rosenior lasted less than four months. Alonso is now reshaping the squad.
The Blues smashed the British transfer record last week, beating Arsenal to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million. A significant portion of that outlay will be offset by Alejandro Garnacho's departure to Villa, initially on loan with an obligation to buy for £50 million, after one underwhelming season in west London.
Defensive reinforcements
Strengthening defence is a priority after Chelsea struggled at the back last term, exacerbated by Levi Colwill's serious knee injury. Colwill is expected to be central to Alonso's plans and could benefit from the arrival of Maxence Lacroix, who appears increasingly likely to join from Crystal Palace.
Alonso also wants a left-sided defender after Marc Cucurella moved to Real Madrid. Barco fits that need, having previously played under Alonso's radar at Brighton and Strasbourg.
Other incomings and outgoings
Portuguese teenager Geovany Quenda is expected to join the first-team squad after spending last season on loan at Sporting Lisbon. Right-back Marco Palestra has already arrived from Atalanta. The club is also offloading players to balance the books, with Garnacho's departure the most significant.
