According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Chelsea’s deal to sign Denis Zakaria from Juventus is “Done deal”. Fabrizio Romano corroborates the story and states that the midfielder is moving to the West London club initially on loan, but Todd Boehly’s club have an option to buy the Swiss player for £30 million at the end of the window with a potential five-year contract.
‘Done Deal’ – Chelsea Complete a Deal for Denis Zakaria
What Does the Loan Deal Cost?
If the Blues focus on keeping the player for only the loan period, this could be a relatively inexpensive deal for the Stamford Bridge club. The club is taking on 100% of the player’s wages throughout his time in West London. However, there is no word regarding a loan fee, which means that signing Zakaria is relatively low cost.
A loan deal is ideal for Thomas Tuchel’s side, offering more flexibility. If the player is of a high enough quality they can secure him at the end of the season for a set price whilst taking a minimal risk throughout the rest of the deal.
Denis Zakaria completed his medical as new Chelsea player and Juventus are preparing all the paperworks. 🚨🔵 #CFC #DeadlineDay
Exclusive: structure of the deal ⤵️
▫️ Loan with £30m buy option, NOT mandatory;
▫️ Potential five year contract;
▫️ Chelsea to cover 100% salary. pic.twitter.com/7RN3vKfaGZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
What Will a Full Transfer Cost?
Todd Boehly’s team have completed excellent business in securing an optional buy clause for the Swiss midfielder. Denis Zakaria will cost Chelsea a total of £30 million if the West London side chooses to activate the buy clause at the end of the season.
By doing this, the Blues created themselves a win-win scenario. If the player performs below expectations, they can simply wait out the year and take on minimal losses. If he plays excellently, they can secure a potentially world-class footballer at a bargain price.
What Business Does Chelsea Have Left?
Chelsea are yet to announce Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a new player. Signing Aubameyang is a clear sign of intent, and adds to the club’s ability to attack down the centre of the pitch. The Gabonese forward also appears to be done now.
Pierre Aubameyang ahead of medical tests as Chelsea player in London: “I’m back”. 🚨🔵 #CFC@footballdaily ⤵️🎥 pic.twitter.com/BL4bFlh5A7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022