Stoke have wrapped up the loan signing of Kurt Zouma from Chelsea, after the Frenchman penned a six-year deal with the champions.
The young centre-back made only nine Premier League appearances for the Blues last season, three of which came from the off, and becomes the Potters’ third summer signing after Darren Fletcher and Josh Tymon.
“Stoke City are delighted to announce the signing of Kurt Zouma on a season-long loan from Premier League champions Chelsea,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“The French international completed a medical at Clayton Wood earlier this week before travelling back to West London to complete the necessary paperwork.
“The 22-year-old, who is widely regarded as one of the most talented young defenders in Europe, was courted by a host of sides around the continent but has opted to make a switch to the bet365 Stadium.”
Stoke manager Mark Hughes said of his arrival: “Kurt is undoubtedly one of the most talented young defenders in the game, so naturally his arrival will enhance our playing squad for the forthcoming campaign.
“We have prioritised adding further strength in depth to defensive positions this summer, and we have certainly done that by fending off any number of clubs who were all interested in taking Kurt on loan.
“He first caught my attention as a 17-year-old during his time at St. Etienne, and in fact, I actually tried to sign him at that point in his career, but whilst that deal never materialised I am delighted to finally get the opportunity to work with him now.
“On his day he is one of the most impressive defenders in the league, and whilst injury unfortunately hampered his progress at Chelsea last season, we are certain that we can give him the platform to recapture the form he showed prior to his setback.”
