Chelsea announce new signing 17 hours after transfer window closed as late deal struck

This created an opportunity for at least one new addition, though manager Enzo Maresca couldn’t disclose any details when interviewed by Sky Sports following Chelsea’s 2-1 win over West Ham.

Behind the scenes, however, the Blues were reportedly working on securing 19-year-old French midfielder Mathis Amougou, who has made 17 appearances in Ligue 1 this season.

It was reported on deadline day that Chelsea had agreed to a £12 million deal to sign the midfielder, with initial plans to loan him to Strasbourg until the end of the season.

Now, Chelsea have confirmed that they successfully completed the deal for Amougou in time, with the 19-year-old signing an eight-and-a-half year contract at Stamford Bridge.

It remains unclear exactly when Chelsea finalized the signing, though clubs can submit a deal sheet between 9pm and 11pm containing the necessary signatures if extra time is needed. Special dispensation is usually granted by the relevant governing bodies in such cases.

Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Amougou said: “I’m very happy. It’s an honour for me to sign for such a big club like Chelsea.

“They believe in young players and the process they have in place to develop us is fantastic.”

Amougou becomes part of a Chelsea team currently sitting in fourth place in the Premier League, having amassed 43 points from their last 24 matches.

Maresca’s squad, ranked ninth in the form table over the past 10 games, will look to build on their recent 2-1 victory over West Ham and regain the early-season momentum that had them pegged as surprise title challengers.