“Grateful” – Every word Enzo Fernandez said after completing £106.8m January transfer to Chelsea

Enzo Fernandez has spoken for the first time since joining Chelsea from Benfica in a club and British record deal.

The 22-year-old has signed a eight-and-a-half-year contract until June 2031 at Chelsea after the Blues agreed a deal of £106.8 million on Deadline Day with Benfica.

Fernandez’s move to the English capital smashes both the club’s record, previously Romelu Lukaku at £97.5 million, as well as the British transfer record following Jack Grealish’s £100 million move from Aston Villa to Manchester City in 2021.

The World Cup winner was eager to join Graham Potter‘s side this month, avoiding a delayed summer move, which has seen Chelsea pay in excess of £105 million for the midfielder, which will be paid over six payments.

Fernandez became Chelsea’s eighth and final signing of the January transfer window following the acquisitions of David Datro Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Andrey Santos, Joao Felix (loan), Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke and Malo Gusto.

The Argentine could make his debut on Friday night when Chelsea entertain Fulham in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge. After completing his blockbuster transfer, Fernandez spoke to the club’s in-house media for the first time since becoming a Blue.

He said: “I am grateful to Chelsea and its ownership for doing everything they could to make me a part of this project.

“I’m happy and excited to join the Pride of London, to play in the best league in the world and to compete for the biggest trophies.

“I can’t wait to play in front of our fans and help my teammates on and off the pitch.”

Co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali added: “In Enzo we are signing a World Cup-winner and one of the brightest talents in global football.

“We are excited to add him to Graham’s squad and we are sure he will form an important part of our team going forward.

“Enzo has demonstrated his ability at the very highest levels so we’re looking forward to seeing what he will do in Chelsea blue!”

Fernandez has confirmed to have taken the number 5 shirt at Stamford Bridge.