Argentina midfielder Valentin Barco joins Chelsea from Strasbourg

Chelsea have signed Argentina international Valentin Barco from sister club Strasbourg on a seven-year deal.The 22-year-old, who played seven times for Brighton including six Premier League appearances during the 2023-24 season, becomes the seventh arrival of new manager Xabi Alonso’s reign.A versatile player who can be used in central midfield as well as his regular position of left-back, Barco was in the Argentina squad that finished as runners-up at the World Cup, winning his fifth cap in the 3-1 group-stage win over Jordan.Chelsea FC is pleased to confirm the signing of Argentinian international Valentin Barco from RC Strasbourg.Welcome to Chelsea, Valentin! 🔵— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 2, 2026He moved to Strasbourg initially on loan from Brighton in 2024 but signed permanently a