Chelsea club announced its official signing of Argentine Valentin Barco from French Strasbourg, with a contract extending until 2033.
Valentin Barco
Club: Chelsea
The 21-year-old midfielder is scheduled to join the team's training during the remaining period of preparation for the new season under the leadership of technical director Xabi Alonso.
Barco began his career with Argentine Boca Juniors, and made his debut with the first team at the age of 16 after being promoted from the youth sector, winning several titles before moving to English Brighton in 2024.
During his time at Brighton, he was loaned out to Spanish Sevilla and then French Strasbourg, before joining the latter permanently following the 2024-2025 season, which saw him excel and contribute to qualifying the team for European participation.
Barco contributed to scoring and assisting 12 goals during 43 matches in all competitions in the past season.
Barco's level with Strasbourg led to his call-up to the Argentina national team squad participating in the 2026 World Cup, and he has so far 5 international matches wearing his country's jersey.
Thus, Barco becomes Chelsea's fourth summer signing after Maxence Lacroix, Morgan Rogers, and Danny Welbeck.
