Chelsea Signs Valentin Barco on Seven-Year Deal

Valentin Barco became Chelsea’s seventh signing of the transfer window on Sunday, joining from sister club Strasbourg on a seven-year deal. He is the second player from Strasbourg to join Chelsea this window, following Emmanuel Emegha, and this transfer marks the 13th deal between the two clubs since the start of last season, as they share an ownership group.

The 22-year-old was part of the Argentina squad that reached the World Cup final and had a notable confrontation with Jude Bellingham during the semi-final. Barco is capable of playing both left-back and midfield positions.

He previously had a brief spell in the Premier League with Brighton three seasons ago, moving to Strasbourg initially on loan in 2024 before signing permanently after helping the club qualify for the Conference League. His arrival is part of a busy summer for Chelsea, who are remodeling under new boss Xabi Alonso, with recent signings including veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton and players from Crystal Palace and Aston Villa.