Denis Zakaria joins Chelsea on loan with a buy option from Juventus
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Chelsea have completed the transfer deadline day signing of Juventus midfielder Denis Zakaria on a season-long loan from Juventus. The Blues have confirmed they have an option to sign the Switzerland international permanently for what is believed to be a fee in the region of £30million.
Zakaria emerged as a Chelsea target early this afternoon after the Blues were unable to convince Ajax to sell Mexican international Edson Alvarez. The 24-year-old was understood to be keen on a late move to Stamford Bridge but given the Dutch transfer window closed last night, Ajax were not prepared to sanction his departure.
A loan move for Zakaria was more straightforward. He joined Juventus in January from Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach but struggled to remain fit. He leaves Juventus for Chelsea, having made just 15 first-team appearances during his eight months with the club.
Speaking after his move to Stamford Bridge was completed, Zakaria told the club’s in-house media: “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.”
Chelsea chairman Todd 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.”
