Chelsea sign goalkeeper from Stoke City

Chelsea have completed the signing of Stoke City goalkeeper Asmir Begovic.

Jose Mourinho hasundefined to replace Petr Cechundefined to Arsenal.

Chelsea and Stoke City both confirmed the deal on their Twitter account after the £8million deal was completed.

Begovic will now compete with current first choice goalkeeper Thiabaut Courtois and have been given the number 1 shirt which was vacated by Cech.

"I am very happy to be joining Chelsea," Begovic told Chelsea's official website.

"After speaking at length to the manager, I feel like I can develop here and be an important part of this team. I am looking forward to meeting up with the team on Wednesday for the pre-season tour."

The goalkeeper also sent a message to Stoke fans, thanking them for their support and also explained his decision behind his move to Chelsea.

"I would like to say thank you to everyone at Stoke Football Club, the chairman and the Coates family, Mark Hughes and Tony Pulis, goalkeeper coach Andy Quy, all my team-mates and especially the fans who have made me and my family so welcome,' he wrote.

"I have loved my time at Stoke but feel I had to take this opportunity for me to continue to develop and challenge myself as a player.

"I am very proud of what we have achieved during my time at Stoke and it has been a great team of players to work with. I wish you all the best for the season ahead."