Everything Chelsea fans should know about Valentin Barco including Jude Bellingham beef

Chelsea fans are already familiar with Welbeck after his spells at Brighton, Arsenal and Manchester United, but not too many supporters will know much about Barco. So, who exactly is this young Argentine the club have just signed?

Which Chelsea players impressed you against Tottenham? Who needs to improve before the Fulham game?

What position does Valentin Barco play?

That is a good place to start. Barco is a very versatile player who is able to play in midfield and at left-back.

How old is Valentin Barco?

Barco turned 22 last month, making him your typical BlueCo signing!

Which clubs has he played for?

Strasbourg, Sevilla, Brighton and Boca Juniors.

Has he played for Argentina yet?

Yes, Barco has five caps and two goals for Argentina. He was part of Lionel Scaloni’s squad, who reached this year’s World Cup final.

What happened between Valentin Barco and Jude Bellingham at the World Cup?

At the end of Argentina’s fiery semi-final clash against England, Jude Bellingham was seen slapping Barco as things boiled over.

How tall is Valentin Barco?

Barco is only 5’7″, so that is a bit of a concern if he is going to be playing in midfield at Chelsea.

What are Chelsea’s plans for Valentin Barco?

Barco is set to link up with the first-team squad in Hong Kong, but what Xabi Alonso does with the Argentina international after that is anyone’s guess.

He could be loaned out, as Chelsea could be set to strengthen both the left-back and central midfield positions before the transfer window closes.

His versatility makes him a useful player to have around, but if Barco wants to play regularly during the 2026/27 season, he is probably going to have to join another club temporarily.