Marcus Bettinelli completes ‘dream’ Chelsea transfer and says he could have joined ‘a few years ago’ but move collapsed

CHELSEA have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli on a two-year deal.

The 29-year-old joins on a free transfer after his Fulham contract expired this month.

Bettinelli will be Thomas Tuchel’s No3 after Willy Caballero left Stamford Bridge.

And the former England U21 stopper, who stands at a mammoth 6ft 4in, admits joining Chelsea is his ‘dream’ move.

Bettinelli told Chelsea’s official website: “It’s always been a special club.

“I know the area very well so it’s been a dream of mine to come over to this side and it’s finally happened.”

The stopper also revealed he nearly joined Chelsea a few years ago before the deal collapsed.

But Bettinelli remains ready to make his mark at the club.

He added: “There were some talks a few years ago when I was a bit younger and for whatever reason that didn’t come about.

“But I’m here now, I’m really excited to be involved and looking forward to trying to impress and help the team as much as I can.” 

Bettinelli began his career at Fulham in 2006 and was handed his pro deal in 2010.

But it wasn’t until 2014 when the goalie made his debut for the Cottagers, playing 39 times in the Championship.

COMPETITION: SPOT THE BALL TO WIN A CAR AND CASH

DREAM TEAM IS BACK! SIGN UP NOW FOR THE 21/22 SEASON FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN £100,000

Bettinelli featured 120 times in total for Fulham before seeing his contract expire at the beginning of July.

He also spent time on loan at Dartford and Accrington Stanley.

And Bettinelli spent the last campaign with Middlesbrough, playing 28 times in all competitions.

Read our Transfer news live blog for the very latest rumours, gossip and done deals