Chelsea finally sign competition for Alonso

Sarah Winterburn

Chelsea have signed Brazilian defender Emerson Palmieri from Roma on a long-term deal thought to be worth £17.6m.

The 23-year-old left-back has committed to a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Premier League club.

He told Chelsea’s website: “I came here because it’s a great team with a great history. Today I am realising one of my dreams to pull on the shirt of such a great club.

“English football is something I have been watching since I was 15 years old. It is a really beautiful game over here but it is going to be even more beautiful to play it.”

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia added: “We are delighted to welcome Emerson to the club. He is a young and talented player who strengthens the squad and will provide excellent competition for places as we pursue success in three different competitions.”

Chelsea