Chelsea sign Belgium striker Batshuayi

London, July 3 (IANS) English football giants Chelsea on Sunday announced the signing of Belgium striker Michy Batshuayi from Marseille on a five-year contract for a reported transfer fee of $44 million.

"Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce Michy Batshuayi has today completed his transfer from Marseille. The 22-year-old signed a five-year contract," said a statement on Chelsea's website.

He was part of the Belgium squad at Euro 2016 and netted with his first touch on his competition debut last week, converting a cross from his new Chelsea team-mate Eden Hazard in a 4-0 triumph over Hungary.

He was linked with a move to Serie A champions Juventus, West Ham United and Crystal Palace.

Batshuayi began his career at Standard Liège and joined Marseille in the summer of 2014, scoring 15 goals in his first season with the club.

He scored 23 goals last season for Marseille as well as providing 10 assists, statistics made all the more impressive considering he was playing in a team which finished 13th in Ligue 1.

Batshuayi said: "I am delighted to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe and embark on the next chapter in my career. I hope I can help Chelsea win many trophies during my time at Stamford Bridge.

"Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have told me many good things about the club, and with Antonio Conte coming in it's an exciting time to become a Chelsea player.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for myself and my family, I am looking forward to playing in the Premier League next season."

Chelsea, winners of the 2014-15 English Premier League, finished last season at the 10th spot.

The season saw them sack champion coach Jose Mourinho in the winter before they appointed Guus Hiddink till the end of the campaign.

The London club will be coached by Italian Antonio Conte, who coached previously his country's national team and Juventus.

--IANS

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