The January 2023 transfer window sweepstakes was completed today (Sunday). Michail Modric, who flirted intensely with Arsenal, has been announced as the new signing of bitter rivals Chelsea. The Blues agreed to meet Shakhtar Donetsk’s bombastic demands for the Ukrainian talent as opposed to the Gunners, and reportedly even offered the winger double his wages.
The 22-year-old Modric signed for eight and a half years, until the summer of 2031, when the value of the deal may reach 100 million euros including future bonuses. Modric arrived at his new home stadium, Stamford Bridge, and was presented on the pitch at half-time against Crystal Palace wrapped in a Ukrainian flag.
The Ukrainian, who will wear the number 15 shirt, said after the signing: “I’m so happy to sign for Chelsea. It’s a huge club, a great league and an attractive project at this stage of my career. I’m excited to meet the new team-mates and look forward to working and learning from Graham Potter and the team His”.
Mykhailo Mudryk has finalised his move from Shakhtar Donetsk after agreeing personal terms with the Blues. ????
— Chelsea FC January 15, 2023
Shakhtar Donetsk have been in persistent negotiations with Arsenal in recent weeks and the impatient Modric posted pictures of himself watching the Gunners’ game. However, the talks continued and dragged on and the parties did not reach an agreement. At this point Chelsea, who were already mentioned as interested in the 22nd Ukrainian not long ago, got involved , submitted a high bid and took the pot.
After the transfer is complete and the talks about Chelsea’s “ambush” to Arsenal are over, Modric and the Blues will also have to take to the field, deal with the price tag and prove that the deal paid off. Arsenal did miss him, but they are in an excellent position in the table and will use the budget for other purchases.
In England yesterday they received the turn as a complete surprise. The former footballer and current commentator, Gabi Agbonlahor, said: “Chelsea ‘made a financial statement’ about Arsenal. I’m guessing that their people just went to Modric’s agent and promised to pay him and the player more money. I think it will hurt Arsenal and its fans.”
On the other hand, there were commentators who complimented Arsenal for not entering into a “bidding war” with Chelsea.