Davide Zappacosta has completed his loan move to AS Roma.
This deal was confirmed by Chelsea as well as the Serie A outfit and is initially for six-months, with an option to extend it until the end of the season.
The Italian becomes the third high-profile defender to depart Stamford Bridge this summer as former captain Gary Cahill joined Crystal Palace on a free transfer and David Luiz made the shock £8m move to London rivals Arsenal.
Zappacosta arrived in west London almost two-years ago to the date in a £23m move from Torino, but couldn't displace Victor Moses from that right-wing back role under Antonio Conte in his debut season.
A change of head coach and system didn't help his cause either as Maurizio Sarri first-choice right-back for last season was Cesar Azpilicueta.
Even the appointment of Frank Lampard in the summer hasn't signalled a new lease of life for Zappacosta and he's joined Roma on loan, but not before signing a contract extension at the Bridge.
And he's looking forward to a new challenge.
"I am pleased to join Roma, after an experience overseas that helped me progress as both a player and a person," he said. "Being able to play for a great club like this is a huge motivation.
"I cannot wait to start training."
With Zappacosta gone, the door is open for Reece James to challenge Azpilicueta for the right-back spot once he returns to full fitness.
The wonderkid has recently stated it would be his dream to play for the club he supports.
"At the end of the day, if you’re a footballer, your job is to play," James told The Independent. "I would always prefer to play than sit around.
"If I’m not, I’m not going to be happy, but there are certain situations where you have to be patient.
"Frank Lampard is a club legend; he’s someone I’ve always looked up to. If a manager believes in youth and believes in you then, eventually, you know the chance will come.
"Ever since I’ve been at Chelsea, my dream has been to become a first-team player.
"This is the team I support.
"This has always been my dream: to make my debut for Chelsea. The dream I had when I first played for the club as a youngster. I'm more motivated than I’ve ever been…and I’d like to think I never take a step back."
