Pato completes ‘dream’ move to Chelsea

Ian Watson

Alexandre Pato has hailed his arrival at Chelsea as “a dream” after joining on loan until the end of the season.

Chelsea have signed the 26-year-old former AC Milan forward on loan from Brazilian club Corinthians.

Pato told Chelsea’s website: “I am so happy to sign for Chelsea. It is a dream for me. I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know my new team-mates and cannot wait to play.

“I thank Chelsea for their support and hope I can repay this faith to the club and its fans.”

 

Pato had been viewed as one of the most exciting young players in Europe when he joined Milan but his career stagnated in Italy after injury problems and he returned to Brazil in January 2013 having scored 63 goals in 150 appearances.

He has made 27 appearances for the Brazil national team, scoring 10 goals, but has not played at international level since the 2012 Olympic Games.

Chelsea interim manager Guus Hiddink had earlier insisted signing Pato would not be a gamble.

Hiddink said: “Coming on loan makes it possible to have a good view on him, whether he is able to adapt to the high demands of the club and the league. It’s not a gamble.”

The Dutchman described the move as ”a brave step” and the success or failure depends on the player.

He added: “It’s up to him.”