Chelsea seal Kalou deal

Chelsea have reached an agreement with Feyenoord for the capture of Salomon Kalou.

Chelsea have reached an agreement with Feyenoord for the capture of Ivory Coast striker Salomon Kalou.

The 20-year-old striker, who netted 42 goals in 83 starts for Feyenoord, has put pen-to-paper on a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge.

"I didn't dream of joining such a big club as early as this," Kalou said.

"I'm happy and proud that I will be able to tell my children and grandchildren that I played for clubs like Chelsea and Feyenoord."

Kalou signed for Feyenoord on the recommendation of older brother Bonaventure, who left the Rotterdam outfit for Auxerre in 2003 following six successful years at the club.

After a year on loan at Excelsior, Kalou exploded onto the Eredivisie scene with 20 goals in his first full season grabbing the attention of Marco Van Basten who guaranteed him a World Cup spot if he could secure a Dutch passport.

He learned that this bid failed in May, meaning he also missed out on the opportunity to represent his native Ivory Coast in the Germany showpiece.

Notching another 15 goals in the 2005/2006 season, Kalou confirmed his status as one of the most exciting young players in world football.

"I spoke with Jose Mourinho, in French, and he convinced me," Kalou added.

"I obviously also asked Ruud Gullit about the club and I told him that I'm proud to follow in his footsteps. He is the one that gave me the chance at Feyenoord after all.

"I'm not afraid of the competition at Chelsea. I will give my all in London to be successful, I believe in my ability. You always have to try to get the best out of yourself. I will become a better player there."

Kalou will compete with fellow Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba for a slot in the Premiership champions' starting line-up.