Xabi Alonso Set To Secure ‘First’ Signing As Chelsea Boss

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Strasbourg utility player Valentin Barco will be the “first reinforcement” of the Xabi Alonso era at Chelsea, according to reports in South America.

She was a VIP claim that the Argentinian international’s move to Stamford Bridge will be made “official” over the “coming days.”

Barco’s transfer to the Blues was first touted by BBC reporter Guillem Balague all the way back in March.

Due to Strasbourg being a Blueco-owned club, negotiations were always going to be pretty straightforward.

Barco has effectively confirmed the transfer himself

At the time of writing, Chelsea have not officially announced the arrival of the 21-year-old, but writing on Instagram (via the BBC), the player made it clear he is leaving Strasbourg:

“Today I say goodbye to this club. I always gave everything on the pitch in every game for this shirt.”

“I want to thank my team-mates, who made everything easier for me; Liam Rosenior and his staff for the confidence they showed in me and for helping shape me as a player; Gary O’Neil and his staff for understanding me and helping me improve; everyone at the club who supports us every day; and the fans for the love they always gave me. Thank you, Strasbourg.”

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Where will he play at Chelsea?

The Argentinian started his career at Boca Juniors as a left-back, having also made several appearances on the wing. However, after making the move to Europe, he struggled to make an impact.

Barco initially joined Brighton before being loaned out to Sevilla. After failing to impress with the La Liga club, he moved to Strasbourg (initially on loan) before making the switch on a permanent basis last summer.

The Argentine has thrived as a central midfielder in France, but it remains to be seen where Alonso would choose to deploy him. If he uses a back three system, there is a good chance that Barco would be selected as a left wing-back.

Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here