Chelsea sign Antonio Rudiger from Roma on five-year deal as centre-back finally completes move to Antonio Conte’s side
Germany international's arrival has been confirmed by Premier League champs and will wear the No.2 shirt at Stamford Bridge
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CHELSEA have completed the £34million signing of Roma star Antonio Rudiger .
The centre-back joins the Premier League champions on a five-year deal and will wear the No.2 shirt next season.
Rudiger becomes Antonio Conte's second signing of the summer after Willy Caballero joined on a free transfer and costs an initial £31m, which could rise to £34m through bonus payments.
The Germany international gushed: “It’s a great feeling because not every player has the opportunity to join a huge club like this.
“I am looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates and I’m very proud to officially become a Chelsea player.”
Technical Director Michael Emenalo added: “We are pleased to be able to bring in a player of proven quality who adds to our defensive options.
“Antonio is still young but is experienced at club and international level and possesses all the requisite attributes to thrive in the Premier League.
“We have been aware of him for some time and we are confident he will fit in well with the squad.”
Chelsea transfer news
Rudiger also posted a farewell message to Roma fans on social media, writing: “Hi guys, I just signed for @chelseaFC.
“The farewell is not easy for me because I really enjoyed playing for @officialroma with its supporters and I made a lot of friends in the team.
“But when I heard of the offer of @chelseafc I had to think about it and I realised that in life you never know if you’ll get a second chance.
“For me the Premier League is the most challenging league in the world and Chelsea with Antonio Conte and his style of defending will be the next step forward for me.
“Nevertheless, I also want to take this opportunity to thank the whole Roma staff and all the fans and my teammates for their support in two amazing years in Rome!”
