Spain striker Alvaro Morata finalises club-record switch to Chelsea

Chelsea have completed the club-record signing of Spain international striker Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid on a five-year deal.

The 24-year-old arrived in London on Thursday to undergo a medical with the Blues after an agreement was reached with Madrid earlier this week.

Morata has now officially put pen to paper on a long-term deal at Stamford Bridge, ending boss Antonio Conte's search for a new forward and almost certainly spelling the end of Diego Costa's time at the club.

Conte has informed Costa that he is free to depart this summer if he can find a new side, although former club Atletico Madrid - his favoured destination - are under a transfer ban until January.

Contrasting reports suggest that Chelsea have paid between £58m and £70m for the ex-Juventus man, who scored 20 goals for Madrid last season in his role as back-up striker.

Speaking to his new club's official website, he said: "I am so happy to be here. It's an incredible emotion to be part of this big club. I am looking to work hard, score as many goals as I can and to win as many trophies as possible."

Technical director Michael Emenalo added: "We are delighted to complete Alvaro's signing and welcome him to the club. We believe he can make a great impact for Chelsea and look forward to seeing him in action.

"Alvaro has proven class at the highest level and his quality will be a huge asset to Antonio and the squad."

Chelsea had previously been in the market for Romelu Lukaku, who instead opted for Manchester United, but Conte insisted earlier today that Morata was always his first-choice target.