Chelsea have completed the signing of defender Axel Disasi from Monaco for £40million.
The French superstar has signed a six-year contract, with the Blues seeing off competition from Manchester United and Newcastle.
After signing for the club, the 25-year-old told the club’s official website: ‘It’s something I’ve been waiting for.
‘I am so happy to be here, at this big club. I am really proud to be able to be a part of this great family, and I hope to achieve very big things here. To win titles. I will do everything I can to achieve those objectives. I am very ambitious.’
The 25-year-old also spoke about his excitement at playing in front of Chelsea fans.
He said: ‘I can’t wait to feel the energy of the fans.
‘This is a very good stadium, one where you have a beautiful proximity to the fans. A typical English stadium, I think.
‘The fervour of the fans in the Premier League, the atmosphere, the intensity of the games: it is something that excites me.’
Chelsea co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley said: ‘Axel has showcased his quality over several seasons in France and that has deservedly led to recognition on the international stage.
‘He is ready to take the next step in his career and we are delighted that will be with Chelsea.
‘We welcome him to the club and look forward to him joining up with Mauricio Pochettino and his new teammates in the days ahead.’
After starting his senior career at Paris FC, Disasi joined Reims before signing for Monaco in 2020.
He made 129 appearances for Monaco and wore the captain’s armband on many occasions.
Disasi featured for France at the World Cup in Qatar last year and was a late substitute in their defeat to Argentina in the final.
