Chelsea have seen their first transfer of the January window confirmed as Dylan Williams arrives from Derby County.
The Blues had a bid for the youngster accepted last week, amid the Rams’ dire financial situation.
He was left out of the Championship side’s 2-1 loss to East Midlands rivals Nottingham Forest at the weekend and has now been confirmed as a Chelsea player, albeit his former side beating the Blues to the punch.
A statement from Derby read: “Dylan Williams has today [Monday] left Derby County to sign for Premier League club Chelsea.
“The second-year scholar, who turned 18 in December, has joined the reigning UEFA Champions League holders after an undisclosed agreement was reached by the two clubs.
“Williams, at the age of just 16, was the youngest player to start in the Rams’ Emirates FA Cup Third Round tie at Chorley just over a year ago on what was his professional debut.
“A mixture of Under-23s and Under-18s players from the Academy stood up to the challenge after the first team squad were forced to self-isolate under COVID-19 protocols.
“Williams made the step up to the first-team fold at start of the current campaign, initially in the Carabao Cup, and went on to record eight appearances in all competitions.
“Everyone at Derby County would like to wish Dylan every success in the next chapter of his career at Chelsea and in the future.”
Amid the news of his switch to Chelsea, Williams has given his thoughts on the switch, albeit somewhat earlier than the actual deal had been announced.
Taking to Instagram on Saturday, the 18-year-old wrote: "Wow. I am absolutely delighted to have signed for one of the biggest clubs in the world.
"Thankyou so much for everything the staff and players have done @dcfcofficial. I cannot wait to get started @chelseafc."
Williams is expected to slot into the youth ranks at Cobham, with the young defender thought to be one for the future after sealing his move to Chelsea.
He was also in attendance for the Blues' 2-0 victory against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
