Chelsea officially signs Germany and Roma defender Antonio Rudiger

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Chelsea finally made Antonio Rudiger's move to the club official Sunday as the former AS Roma defender signed a five-year contract with the Blues.

The club announced the news via its official website. In a statement, Rudiger expressed his joy at joining the Premier League champions: "It's a great feeling because not every player has the opportunity to join a huge club like this.

"I am looking forward to meeting up with my new team-mates, and I'm very proud to officially become a Chelsea player."

The 24-year-old joined Roma from VfB Stuttgart in 2015, with his loan move made permanent last summer. He enjoyed a fine 2016-17 campaign and played a key role in Germany's run to the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup.

Blessed with remarkable athleticism and pace for a defender, he greatly improved his vision in Italy and became a complete centre-back. He's also comfortable playing on the left or right side of a three-man defence, which made him a perfect target for the Blues.

The German becomes the first major signing of the summer for Chelsea, who are expected to add more pieces to their squad with UEFA Champions League action on the horizon.

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