As we exclusively revealed back on the 5th August, Islam Feruz has agreed to sign for Chelsea. News of the transfer has been confirmed by Feruz’s agent Rui Alves on Sky Sports, he said: “It is a massive step for Islam and for Scottish football. Now for him personally it is the beginning of a major adventure, he will have to work, work and work and raise his own level.”
“Playing for a top club like Chelsea, where the major word in the squad is quality, will oblige him to show his own quality and deliver his best and convince the staff that he is more than just a major prospect.”
Manchester United and Manchester City were heavily linked with the Somaali-born youngster, but the Stamford Bridge side secured his signature.
Feruz could have signed professional terms for Celtic, as he turned 16 this month, however he has decided on a switch to Chelsea but cannot sign pro-terms until next year when he turns 17.
Alves added: “The first impression was extraordinary, it is a feeling that the whole club is behind him, they will support him on a daily basis and give him total trust and make him believe. The first impression was extraordinary, it is a feeling that the whole club is behind him, they will support him on a daily basis and give him total trust and make him believe.”
Celtic manager Neil Lennon admitted last month that the striker had not been seen at the club since the summer.
Lennon said at the time: “It’s going to be very difficult for us to hold onto him. That’s the situation at the minute. I would rather discuss it at another time when everything is clear. At the minute, I haven’t seen Islam since the start of the season. We’ve done everything we can to keep the player. I think we’ve done more than enough to make him feel at home here. He does have other people in the background who are advising him. My take on it is they are advising him wrongly. But we seem to be powerless in that situation.”
Despite rumours that Feruz would consider switching allegiances, Alvez has confirmed that Feruz will continue to play for Scotland.
“He is looking forward to starting his career with Chelsea, but he would love to thank Celtic for all they did for him and his parents, he is Scottish and will one day score goals for Scotland.”
