By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Chelsea have completed the signing of Spanish left-back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on a five-year contract, continuing their extensive recruitment drive under new manager Xabi Alonso.

The 28-year-old defender joins the London club for a reported £16.3 million, with a further £1.7 million available in add-ons. His arrival makes him Chelsea’s 11th signing of the summer transfer window.

Chavarria, who spent the past several seasons establishing himself as a dependable full-back in La Liga, made 125 appearances for Rayo Vallecano. He also started for the Spanish club in last season’s Conference League final, which Rayo lost 1-0 to Crystal Palace.

His performances against some of Spain’s biggest clubs reportedly helped attract Alonso’s attention. In a goalless draw against Real Madrid at Vallecas last November, Chavarria produced a strong defensive display against an elite attack, impressing Alonso, who was then Real Madrid’s manager.

The defender said he was excited by the opportunity to move to England for the first time in his career.

“I’m so excited to get started. This is a dream for me as Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the world. This is one of the best days of my life,” Chavarria said.

He added that the move represented a major opportunity and pledged to work hard to help Chelsea achieve success.

Chavarria also described the Premier League as the best league in the world and said its quality and intensity suited him.

“Always, Chelsea need to win all trophies. It’s the best club in London, we need to work hard and I think with these players, it is possible,” he said.

The transfer was reportedly difficult to conclude after Rayo initially insisted that Chelsea meet Chavarria’s release clause, which had risen to about £42.4 million.

However, negotiations eventually resulted in an agreement below that figure.

Chavarria scored once and provided three assists in all competitions last season, while creating 27 chances from open play in La Liga.

Chelsea have been particularly active in the transfer market this summer. Their other arrivals include Jordon Henderson, Morgan Rogers, Danny Welbeck, Valentin Barco, Maxence Lacroix, Marco Palestra, Geovany Quenda, Emmanuel Emegha, Denner and Dastan Satpaev.

Chavarria could make his first appearance for Chelsea in a friendly against Real Sociedad on August 15, before potentially making his competitive debut away to Fulham on August 24.