Belgian Blues help entice in-demand Michy Batshuayi to Chelsea

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Sports Editor

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Chelsea's newest recruit Michy Batshuayi has revealed that Belgium team-mates Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois helped convince him to move to Stamford Bridge in a £33m transfer.

The 22-year-old striker completed his move from Marseille on Sunday, signing a five-year contract, following Belgium’s elimination from the European Championship by Wales on Friday.

“I am delighted to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe and embark on the next chapter in my career. I hope I can help Chelsea win many trophies during my time at Stamford Bridge,” he said.

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“Eden Hazard and Thibaut Courtois have told me many good things about the club, and with [new manager] Antonio Conte coming in it’s an exciting time to become a Chelsea player.”

Batshuayi scored 33 goals in 78 matches for Marseille, who he joined from Standard Liege in the summer of 2014, and has three goals from seven international appearances.

That form alerted Italian champions Juventus and West Ham, while Crystal Palace had an offer accepted last week before Chelsea swooped to make him the first signing of new coach Antonio Conte’s reign.

Batshuayi’s arrival comes after the departure of Pato and Falcao, who both had underwhelming loan stints at Chelsea last season.