Boehly explains why Chelsea signed Aubameyang and Zakaria on deadline day
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has explained why he sanctioned moves for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Denis Zakaria on deadline day.
The Blues bolstered Thomas Tuchel’s squad late in the window with the signings of Barcelona striker Aubameyang and Juventus midfielder Zakaria.
Aubameyang scored 13 goals in 24 games for Barca after joining the La Liga club from Arsenal earlier in the year.
Before that, the Gabon superstar netted 92 goals in 163 games for Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Arsenal.
Boehly said: ‘Pierre-Emerick is an elite striker with a proven track record in the Premier League and his arrival strengthens our squad, giving us new attacking options.
‘We are thrilled to have Pierre-Emerick on board with us in the new era at Chelsea and we’re really looking forward to working with him.’
Chelsea were also desperate to sign a new midfielder before the summer transfer window shut and agreed a loan deal with Juventus for Switzerland international Zakaria.
The Blues have the option to sign Zakaria on a permanent deal and Boehly said: ‘Denis is a talented midfielder with lots of quality and skill.
‘He will add depth and range to our squad this season, and we are looking forward to watching him play in Chelsea blue.’
Chelsea enjoyed a productive transfer window, spending more than £250m – the highest amount any club has spent in a single transfer window.
Following his move to Stamford Bridge, former Arsenal captain Aubameyang said: ‘I’m really happy. It’s an honour to be part of this team and I can’t wait to start.
‘I have some unfinished business with the Premier League so it’s good to be back and really exciting.’
Zakaria added: ‘I want to say hi to all the Chelsea fans. I’m very happy and proud to be a Blue and I cannot wait to see you soon at Stamford Bridge.’ – Metro
