Fiorentina coach Vincenzo Montella has confirmed in a press conference this afternoon that Juan Cuadrado has left to join Chelsea.
Widespread reports have claimed that the Blues are edging ever closer to sealing the winger's signature, and it is believed that the Blues have agreed to pay a £26.8m buyout clause.
Montella has admitted that he is "disappointed" to lose a player of Cuadrado's quality, but has revealed his excitement in signing Mohamed Salah as part of the deal.
"Honestly, it was something that had to be done," Montella told reporters. "As a coach I'm disappointed, but on a pragmatic level the fee is so high that it's worth it.
"It's nobody's fault, we must absolutely not be distracted, and offer excuses, we must be supremely focused. He always demonstrated the utmost professionalism, and joy in playing. I'm happy for him, because he's gone to play in a very good team.
"We're getting a player in Salah who will have to adapt to our football. This is a league that's different from the Swiss and the English."
Chelsea will reportedly pay £23.3m up front, with the remainder being transferred in add-ons.
Danielle Joynson
