Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Michy Batshuayi from Marseille on the club’s official website. The 22-year-old striker signed a five-year contract with the Stamford Bridge club and will be at the London club until 2021. The transfer fee has been reported to be approximately €40m.
Batshuayi was on international duty with Belgium at UEFA Euro 2016 and even managed to score a goal after coming off the bench in a 4-0 win over Hungary. However, Belgium were knocked out after a 3-1 loss to Wales in the quarter-final, allowing Batshuayi to complete his move to the Premier League.
“I am delighted to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe and embark on the next chapter in my career,” Batshuayi said. “I hope I can help Chelsea win many trophies during my time at Stamford Bridge.
Batshuayi also spoke of how his compatriots from Chelsea helped convince him to move to the club while he was also excited to play under Conte.
“Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have told me many good things about the club,” Batshuayi added. “And with Antonio Conte coming in it's an exciting time to become a Chelsea player.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for myself and my family, I am looking forward to playing in the Premier League next season.”
More: Scout Report – Michy Batshuayi
Batshuayi scored 17 goals in 36 Ligue 1 appearances and 25 goals in all competitions last season. The Belgian striker was also linked with other European clubs such as Juventus, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham.
Crystal Palace were also heavily linked with Batshuayi and even managed to get Marseille to accept a £31.6m bid. However, the player refused to move to Palace citing the need to sign for a bigger club.
He had also written an open letter to the Marseille fans stating that his exit from the club would be confirmed on Sunday. The former Standard Liège striker thanked the fans and also former coach Marcelo Bielsa.
“I particularly want to thank all the supporters of OM: during my two years with the club I have loved since I was young, you have shown me your affection and support.
“Developing for a season under coach [Marcelo] Bielsa was a privilege and I would love to achieve what he has wished for me in the remainder of my career.”
