Chelsea have officially announced the signing of Spanish midfielder Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona for an undisclosed transfer fee.
The 27-year-old, who has penned down a five-year contract, will be donning the number 4 shirt vacated by Brazilian defender David Luiz, who is set to join Paris Saint-Germain.
"Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Cesc Fabregas from Barcelona. The 27-year-old has joined on a five-year contract and will wear the no. 4 shirt," read an announcement in the Blues official website.
Despite many big clubs including Manchester United and Manchester City being interested in signing the Spaniard, who was expected to leave Barcelona this summer, Fabregas says that Chelsea was the only club that matched his requirements.
"I considered all the other offers very carefully and I firmly believe that Chelsea is the best choice. They match my footballing ambitions with their hunger and desire to win trophies. They have an amazing squad of players and an incredible manager. I am fully committed to this team and I can't wait to start playing," said Fabregas
Fabregas, who is currently busy prepaing for Spain's opening World Cup game against Holland on Saturday (12:30 am IST), revealed that he chose Chelsea after his former club Arsenal did not exercise their buy-back option.
"Yes, everyone knows that Arsenal had the first option to sign me. They decided not to take this option and therefore it wasn't meant to be. I wish them well in the future."
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech welcomed Fabregas at Chelsea, saying that the Spaniard would be a great addition to the team.
"Obviously he's a great player, with a lot of experience of playing in England and the Premier League so it's a great addition to the team," said Cech.
Finally the 27-year-old thanked everyone at Barcelona, where he spent three years after signing in from Arsenal in 2011.
"I would like to thank everyone at FC Barcelona where I enjoyed three wonderful years. It was my childhood club and I will always be proud and honoured that I had a chance to play for such a great team," he added.
