Chelsea English club officially announced the signing of Argentine international player Valentin Barco, arriving from French club Strasbourg, during the current summer transfer window.
Chelsea English club published the following on its official website: "The versatile midfielder signed a contract that runs until 2033, and will join coach Xabi Alonso and his new teammates later in the new season's preparation period".
The deal statement added: "Barco, 21, began his football career with Argentine club Boca Juniors. He played his first professional matches at the age of 16, after progressing through the club's academy, and won several titles before moving to England in 2024 to join Brighton & Hove Albion".
It continued: "During his time on the Sussex coast, Barco played on loan with Sevilla and Strasbourg, and joined the latter permanently after the 2024/25 season in which he shone remarkably and helped Strasbourg qualify for European competitions.
It added: "Barco contributed to 12 goals in 43 matches across all competitions last season, and his outstanding level with his club qualified him for inclusion in the Argentina national team squad for the 2026 World Cup, with five international appearances to date".
The London club concluded its official statement: "Welcome to Chelsea, Valentin. We look forward to you joining the team soon".
Chelsea had signed English striker Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for £117 million, after strong competition with Arsenal.
Full-back Marco Palestra also arrived from Atalanta, who could play a key role in implementing coach Xabi Alonso's technical style, while talks remain open regarding left-sided option Pep Chavarría from Rayo Vallecano.
