Batshuayi joins Chelsea from Marseille

Despite being a target for Juventus, Michy Batshuayi becomes Antonio Conte’s first signing as Chelsea coach, with the former Marseille striker signing a five-year deal with the Blues .

Chelsea have won the race to sign highly rated striker Michy Batshuayi from Marseille, fending off interest from a host of European clubs.

The Belgian international will link up with his new teammates once he returns from his post- Euro 2016 break, having helped the Red Devils to a quarter-final spot.

A stellar season at the Stade Velodrome had seen the likes of Juventus , Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United show their interest in his services, but it is the Blues who have landed the 22-year-old. A transfer fee of €40 million has been agreed with Marseille, whilst Batshuayi has penned a five-year contract.

“Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce that Michy Batshuayi today completed his transfer from Marseille,” a statement on the club’s official website read.

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Meanwhile, the player himself spoke of the influence of his compatriots that drew him to the Blues.

“I am delighted to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe,” the striker told Chelseafc.com.

“Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have told me many good things, and with [coach] Antonio Conte coming in, it’s an exciting time to be a Chelsea player.”

Batshuayi is incoming coach Antonio Conte’s first signing of his reign at Chelsea, with the Italy tactician set to take over at the West London club following the Azzurri’s elimination from Euro 2016