Chelsea transfer news: Blues interested in defender Pep Chavarria of Rayo Vallecano

Chelsea are monitoring Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria as they look to strengthen their defence.

Any move for the 28-year-old, who made 44 appearances for Vallecano last season, would not be as a direct replacement for Marc Cucurella, who joined Real Madrid for £51.8m a fortnight ago.

Instead, that role is expected to be filled internally, with Jorrel Hato set to play a significant part under new manager Xabi Alonso next season.

Chavarria would offer a more attacking option, particularly if Alonso opts to use wing-backs, as he did during his time at Bayer Leverkusen.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are also targeting a centre-back and are expected to step up their pursuit of Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix.

Strengthening the midfield is also desired, with Strasbourg's Valentin Barco expected to join, as well as a move for a versatile attacker.

Elsewhere, Chelsea have set an asking price of £30m plus £5m in add-ons for centre-back Trevoh Chalobah after a bid was lodged by Como. Fellow Serie A side Inter Milan are among other clubs interested.

Potential departures form part of a wider plan to streamline the squad, with Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Alejandro Garnacho and Liam Delap all facing uncertain futures.

Real Madrid are expected to make a move for midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who is keen to leave and valued at about £120m by Chelsea.