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Morgan Rogers has revealed how ongoing conversations with Cole Palmer led to his record transfer to Chelsea.
The England international has completed a £117m switch from Aston Villa, to become the most expensive British player of all time, and will link up with childhood friend Palmer at Stamford Bridge.
“I’ve known Cole since I was about 14, first in the England [youth] teams and then when we were both at Man City together,” Rogers told Chelsea’s website after signing a seven-year deal.
“We’ve been speaking about this for a while. We always would love to have played together. So, for it to happen, we’re both excited.
“He’s non-stop ringing my phone, texting me, and I can’t wait. I think that’s probably the most special thing, playing with one of your best friends and being around him every day. It’s something I’m really excited about.”
While Rogers and Palmer can both play in the No 10 position, the pair are likely to dove-tail in attack under new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso.
Rogers also revealed how Alonso, who took charge at Chelsea in July, convinved him to sign for the Blues ahead of Premier League champions Arsenal.
“I’ve had a few conversations with him and I think it’s important for me to be here that I need to understand what the manager’s like, how he is and how he wants to operate,” Rogers added.
“It very much fits with the way I see the game, the way I want to play, and the way I want to be me, and be free and express myself. Him being a part of that was a massive factor in me being here.”
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