Chelsea sign Argentina midfielder Valentin Barco on contract until 2033

Chelsea have announced the signing of Argentina midfielder Valentin Barco from French club Strasbourg on a contract running until 2033.

The 21-year-old is expected to join the Chelsea squad for the remaining part of their preparations for the new season, working under head coach Xabi Alonso.

Barco becomes Chelsea’s fourth signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Maxence Lacroix, Morgan Rogers and Danny Welbeck.

The move completes Barco’s progression from Argentine football to the Premier League, after he began his career with Boca Juniors. He made his senior debut for the club at the age of 16 after being promoted from their youth academy.

During his time with Boca Juniors, Barco won several honours before moving to Brighton in 2024. He subsequently spent periods on loan at Spanish club Sevilla and Strasbourg in France.

Barco’s performances at Strasbourg earned him a permanent transfer to the club after the 2024-25 season. That campaign saw him make a strong contribution as Strasbourg secured qualification for European competition.

Across all competitions last season, Barco was involved in 12 goals in 43 appearances, either scoring or providing assists. His form at Strasbourg also led to his inclusion in Argentina’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Barco has won five international caps for Argentina so far. His move to Chelsea gives him the chance to continue his development at one of England’s leading clubs while competing for a place in Alonso’s squad.

Chelsea’s decision to commit the player to a deal lasting until 2033 underlines the long-term nature of the transfer. Barco will now link up with the team during the final stages of their pre-season work before the new campaign begins.

His career has developed quickly since his breakthrough at Boca Juniors. After becoming one of the club’s youngest first-team players, he moved to Brighton and gained further experience in Spain and France through loan spells.

The temporary move to Strasbourg proved particularly significant. Following his loan period, the French club made the transfer permanent after the 2024-25 campaign, during which Barco helped the side achieve European qualification. His performances there then brought international recognition and a place in Argentina’s 2026 World Cup group.

Chelsea’s summer recruitment has now reached four additions, with Barco joining Lacroix, Rogers and Welbeck as the club prepares for the new season under Alonso.