Premier League: Manchester City sign Rulli; Chelsea bring in Chavarria ahead of new season

Premier League clubs Manchester City and Chelsea have made significant squad additions as they prepare for the upcoming season. Manchester City has secured the services of Argentine goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, while Chelsea has brought in Spanish defender Pep Chavarria.

Rulli joins Manchester City from French club Olympique de Marseille on a two-year deal. The 34-year-old goalkeeper arrives as experienced cover, particularly following James Trafford's departure to Leeds United. Rulli previously had a stint at City during the 2016-17 season but did not feature in a senior match. He is expected to provide competition and backup for first-choice goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

"This is an amazing opportunity for me and one I had to grasp," Rulli stated in a club announcement. "When the chance to join Manchester City comes along, you have to take it. Everyone knows what an impressive club this is." Rulli brings international experience, having earned eight caps for Argentina and being part of their victorious 2022 FIFA World Cup and 2024 Copa America squads. He was also instrumental in Villarreal's 2021 UEFA Europa League triumph.

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This is an amazing opportunity for me and one I had to grasp. When the chance to join Manchester City comes along, you have to take it. Everyone knows what an impressive club this is.

Meanwhile, Chelsea has signed left-back Pep Chavarria from Rayo Vallecano on a contract extending to 2031. While financial terms were not disclosed, British media reports suggest an initial fee of £16.3 million, potentially rising to £1.7 million with add-ons, for the 28-year-old. "This is a dream for me as Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the world. It is a big opportunity but I am prepared and will work hard to help the team achieve success," Chavarria said in a statement.

Chavarria, who made 125 appearances for Rayo Vallecano and played a key role in their UEFA Conference League final run last season, will bolster Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso's options at left-back. This move comes after the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid. Chelsea, who finished 10th last season, begin their new campaign against Fulham on August 24.

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This is a dream for me as Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs in the world. It is a big opportunity but I am prepared and will work hard to help the team achieve success.