Chelsea have confirmed the signing of French midfielder, N’Golo Kante, on a five-year deal from Leicester City for a reported fee of £32m.
It’s official! Welcome to Chelsea, N’Golo Kante! https://t.co/BRg1Njs5PB #WelcomeKante pic.twitter.com/1gqqQvFPiK
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 16, 2016
Kante, signed for Leicester last summer from Caen for £5.6million, was a revelation during his maiden season in England as Claudio Ranieri’s side became shock Premier League champions.
He was named on the six-man shortlist for the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award – won by Foxes team-mate Riyad Mahrez – but his displays also brought him to the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Kante said via Chelsea’s official website: “I am so happy to have signed for one of the biggest clubs in Europe. It’s a dream come true for me.
“The opportunity to work with Antonio Conte, a brilliant coach, and some of the best players in the world was simply too good to turn down.
“My first season in English football was very special and now I hope to go on to achieve even more during my time as a Chelsea player. I am looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates and helping the club achieve a lot of success.”
Chelsea technical director, Michael Emenalo, added: “N’Golo is a fantastic signing ahead of the new season and we are delighted to have been able to bring such a talented player to the club.
“He is a perfect fit in terms of Antonio Conte’s philosophies and the style of football he wants to play.
“For a player of his age he has already built up a wealth of experience and his exceptional quality will without doubt be a great addition to the team.”
