Chelsea sign Brazilian Emerson from Roma

The 23-year-old, who can also play in a more advanced role on the left flank, cost Chelsea a reported fee of 17.6 million pounds and will offer manager Antonio Conte an alternative to Marcos Alonso.

"I came here because it’s a great team with a great history. Today I am realising one of my dreams to pull on the shirt of such a great club," Emerson told the club's official website (www.chelseafc.com).

"English football is something I have been watching since I was 15 years old. It is a really beautiful game over here but it is going to be even more beautiful to play it," he added.

British newspapers reported on Tuesday that Chelsea were close to signing France striker Olivier Giroud from Arsenal.

(Reporting by Simon Evans; Editing by Toby Davis)