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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Joseph Cassinelli

Chelsea transfer news: Alvaro Morata delighted to fulfil 'destiny' with Atletico Madrid move

Alvaro Morata says he's delighted to fulfil his "destiny" and return to his boyhood club Atletico Madrid after sealing an 18-month loan deal.

The Spaniard has endured a torrid last 12 months at Stamford Bridge, having joined Chelsea from Atleti's city rivals Real Madrid in 2017, scoring 16 goals in 47 league games.

He has often looked devoid of confidence in front of goal in England, losing the faith of both former Chelsea coach Antonio Conte and current Blues boss Maurizio Sarri.

"I'm absolutely made up and so proud to be here," he told a news conference after officially signing his deal

LIVE: Latest updates from the January transfer window

"There were other offers but all that stopped when Atletico came into the equation. I'm here and it's brilliant. I can't wait to train with my new teammates."

A boyhood Atletico fan, Morata spent four years in the club's academy before joining Getafe's youth setup in 2007 and later Real Madrid's.

He spent four years with the Real first team between 2010 and 2014, moving to Juventus for two years before returning to the Spanish capital. He then joined Chelsea in 2017.

"It means a lot for me to be here, with people who know me and I can only give my thanks," he added.

Morata was unveiled in Madrid on Tuesday (EPA)

"I didn't need convincing (by coach Diego Simeone) to join. He knew that destiny was calling me here. I can't wait to get started and to play for him."

Morata could make his debut on Sunday's at Real Betis, with the intriguing prospect of a Madrid derby against Real a week later, before his other former club Juventus, visit in their Champions League last 16 first leg next month.

Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news, rumours and done deals throughout the January window​

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