Chelsea have completed the signing of Raheem Sterling from Manchester City for a fee of £47.5 million plus add-ons, it has been confirmed.
Thomas Tuchel makes his first addition of the summer with the 27-year-old’s arrival at Stamford Bridge.
Sterling also becomes the first signing of the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital era which has seen him put pen to paper on a long-term contract in west London, penning an five-year contract at Chelsea
Manchester City struck an agreement with Chelsea regarding a £47.5 million deal which could rise to £50 million with the included add-ons, as per reports.
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Conversations with Tuchel were positive after the head coach’s plans and ambitions for the England international were laid out, playing a crucial role in getting a transfer over the line.
Sterling is now a Chelsea player and joins the squad in the United States for their pre-season tour.
He has been given a small uplift from his £300,000-a-week deal at City, which makes him the highest paid player in the current Blues squad.
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Sterling spoke to the official Chelsea website upon his arrival and said: "First and foremost, it’s a pleasure to be here.
"I’ve obviously achieved a lot in my career so far, but there is still so much more to achieve and I’m really looking forward to doing that in a Chelsea shirt, under Thomas’s management.
"London is my home and where it all started for me, and it’s amazing I now have the opportunity to play in front of friends and family week in, week out at Stamford Bridge. I’m really looking forward to meeting the fans there soon.
"I do want to take the opportunity to thank Todd, Behdad, the ownership group, Thomas, and all involved in the process of getting me here.
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"I can’t wait to get going now and continue to do my talking on the pitch."
Todd Boehly added: "Raheem Sterling is a serial winner and his signing is an important step in strengthening our squad. We are delighted for Raheem to return to London with Chelsea, and we look forward to seeing his world-class talent on display at Stamford Bridge."
Sterling penned a letter of farewell to Manchester City earlier on Wednesday, writing: "Seven seasons, eleven major trophies, a lifetime of memories.
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"To the coaching staff who have played a massive role in my development over the years, to my teammates who have become more than just those I share a pitch with, to the backroom staff, to the office staff, to the fans who have tirelessly supported the team, and to everyone involved with Manchester City, my respect for you couldn’t be greater.
"What a ride it’s been.
"I am thankful for the ups and the downs. As it’s the downs that have, at times, tested my strength and resolve, and enabled me to stand here in front of you as the best possible version of myself.
"I arrived in Manchester a 20-year-old, today, I leave as a man.
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"Thank you for your endless support. It’s been an honour to wear the shirt of Manchester City."
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Raheem Sterling, Manchester City
