Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly hailed the late deadline day signing of Juventus midfielder Denis Zakaria.
The Swiss international became a shock target during the final few hours of a record-breaking transfer window at Stamford Bridge, signing a season-long loan deal ahead of a potential £26m permanent move next summer.
Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez was the subject of a £40m offer but the Dutch giants stood firm and rejected all interest, with attention then turning to Zakaria.
Thomas Tuchel had been keen to strengthen his options in midfield following Billy Gilmour’s exit to Brighton. Ethan Ampadu, meanwhile, joined Serie A side Spezia on loan and the Italian club have a £12m option to buy the Welsh international next summer.
N’Golo Kante has consistently struggled with injuries for much of the past year, while Mateo Kovacic is working his way back up to full fitness. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is another injury concern, leaving only Jorginho and Conor Gallagher as recognised options there prior to Zakaria’s late arrival.
Speaking to the club’s official website, the 25-year-old said: “I want to say hi to all the Chelsea fans. I’m very happy and proud to be a Blue and I cannot wait to see you soon at Stamford Bridge.”
Boehly added: “Denis is a talented midfielder with lots of quality and skill. He will add depth and range to our squad this season, and we are looking forward to watching him play in Chelsea blue.’
