Chelsea have signed Mateo Kovacic on a season-long loan from Real Madrid, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expected to have his permanent move in the opposite direction confirmed later on Thursday.

Midfielder Kovacic, 24, has been at Real for three seasons since joining from Inter Milan.

He helped Croatia reach the final of this summer's World Cup in Russia.

"I am really happy and excited to be here. It is an amazing feeling," Kovacic told Chelsea's website.

"I will try to do my best for this club. It is a new league for me, the beginning is always tough but I am sure the coach and my new team-mates will help me and I am looking forward to a great season."

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia added: "He is a perfect fit for us this season, his style is well suited to how Maurizio wants to play and we are sure he will prove to be a valuable asset for the club."

 

 

Perez makes West Ham switch

Upon arriving at London Stadium, Lucas Perez said: "I’m very happy to be here at such an historic club."

"I’m very excited, as West Ham are giving me the chance to stay in the Premier League and I’m very happy to be part of this new project.

"West Ham have great fans and play in an amazing stadium, so to sign here brings me great joy. I’m very motivated."

 

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