Official: Chelsea sign Marcos Alonso from Fiorentina

Update: Chelsea have now confirmed the deal on the official site.

Chelsea and Fiorentina have decided to put their Salah-drama issues aside and work out a deal to send Spanish defender Marcos Alonso to Stamford Bridge. The ex-Bolton, ex-Sunderland man was undoubtedly not the Blues’ top choice for defensive reinforcement, but he’s at least competent, and will provide some much needed strength in depth.

According to the latest rumours, the Blues paid €28 million, with bonuses raising that up to a possible €30 million. And the Spaniard is looking forward to his stint at a club that he's always been hopeful of joining, having signed a five-year deal with the Blues on his arrival.

"I’m very happy. It’s a step up in my career and I think this is the perfect place for me to continue developing. It’s time for me to win some titles."

"It was an easy decision for me to make when I heard the club were interested in signing me. My family and close friends know Chelsea is the club I have dreamed about playing for so I’m really excited about the challenge and I'm looking forward to working with my new team-mates."

-Marcos Alonso; Source: Chelsea FC

A former Real Madrid prospect, Alonso’s career has perhaps not lived up to such glamorous beginnings (yet), but everywhere he’s been, be that Bolton, Sunderland, or Fiorentina, he’s been reasonably successful. He’s a tall and versatile defender, who's also capable of playing as a centre back. And maybe, unlike the last two left backs purchased, he’ll stick around for more than just a season.

Welcome, Marcos Alonso! You are the chosen one. Maybe.