Monaco have completed the signing of Chelsea target Aleksandr Golovin on a five-year deal from CSKA Moscow.
The 22-year-old, who starred for Russia at the World Cup, had been linked with a move to Chelsea, with new head coach Maurizio Sarri stating his interest in adding some midfield quality.
Last week, CSKA Moscow team-mate Sergey Chepchugov had hinted the midfielder could be heading to Chelsea.
However, Golovin has been snapped up by the Ligue 1 team, with Monaco's vice-president Vadim Vasilyev admitting there was competition for his signature from "very large European clubs".
Vasilyev told the club's website: "We are very happy with the arrival of Aleksandr Golovin at AS Monaco. He is a talented young player, very prominent during the World Cup, but we have been following him for a long time.
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"He already has solid experience in Russian first division and internationally. Despite the competition of very large European clubs, Aleksandr has chosen the sporting project of AS Monaco, which will offer him the best conditions to continue his progress."
Golovin played in four of Russia's World Cup games as the hosts reached the quarter-finals before losing to Croatia on penalties.
"I am very happy to sign at AS Monaco," Golovin said. "This is a new adventure for me that I approach with a lot of ambitions. I am now very much looking forward to meeting the staff and my new teammates and to get going."
Alexander Golovin Goals & Skills
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Handsome Mike
161
Better for him..He would have cleaned our bench for a season at least..The likes of Pedro, Odoi, Morata, Loftus ain't even sure of their position talk less of Golovin..Wise one son!
okeykalu
114
I don't understand what is going on in Chelsea. they are at the verge of losing key players. in the person of Hazard and William. yet they are watching other clubs fortifying their teams. and they do nothing. very sad.
Mocca
99
wonder how long he'll be relevant for , french league --> prem league, even though the kid is pure talent but still, goodluck. Andrey Arshavin 2.0
Sirlewiz
68
I see Emenalo's hand in this transfer.I'm sure he did everything to sign him for Monaco just to spite Chelsea for all they did to him.Chelsea's transfers have beena shambles since he left them for Monaco.They owe that guy a lot for all their successes past with his marvellous works behind the scene.
Oliver2wist
38
Myfootball app give this news 10 minutes ago more faster than all football [Spittongue]
So should we start crying?