Chelsea sign Asier del Horno

Chelsea has completed the signing of Spain international left-back Asier del Horno for £8m (€12m) from Athletic Bilbao.

The 24-year-old has agreed a three-year deal and will officially become a Chelsea player on July 1st.

Left-back was an area of weakness for Chelsea last season with Wayne Bridge’s broken ankle forcing William Gallas to play out of position.

Jose Mourinho told the official club website: “Asier is an outstanding international player who will add quality to the squad in a position we needed to strengthen. I’m sure he will be a key player as Chelsea continues with its goal to achieve greater success both in England and in the Champions League.”

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon added: “Jose identified his target to fill the left-back position and we’re delighted that Asier has chosen to come to Chelsea. The arrival of Asier signifies Chelsea’s desire to strengthen the squad in key positions following a hugely successful season and we all look forward to seeing Asier in the blue of Chelsea in July.”?

Del Horno signed his contract at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening and will be formally introduced when he joins up with the Chelsea squad for pre-season training on July 6th. He’s likely to make his debut against Milan in a friendly in Boston on July 24th.

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