Matt Miazga has today officially joined the Premier League's reigning champions Chelsea, for a reported fee of £3.5million pounds - according to talkSPORT.

The talented 20-year-old defender, who flourished in the MLS with the New York Red Bulls, has been a keen admirer of European football for quite some time and his consistent displays helped him emerge as a rising talent in America - following his debut across the Atlantic shortly after his 18th birthday.

Miazga delighted to have completed switch

The Polish-American, who has joined on a four-and-a-half year deal, said he is "very happy" to have joined a "world-famous club" in the "best league in the world".

He was also frank in the way he spoke about his youth, describing himself as someone still "at the beginning" of their career, but feels as though the Premier League is "the place to develop", where he'll learn from some of the world's best players.

 | Image: Chelsea's official website
Miazga in his first training session alongside his new teammates earlier today | Image: Chelsea's official website

NYRB feel 'bittersweet' about transfer

Miazga made his debut for the US national side back in November last year, having represented his country at both Under-20 and Under-23 levels.

As for Miazga's now-former side - NYRB's sporting director, Ali Curtis, admitted the club feel "bittersweet" over the transfer.

They are "very happy" for the opportunity that Matt has been given, but also, they're ultimately disappointed that he's leaving them - especially having come through their ranks from the academy into the first-team frame.

"We tried everything we could to keep Matt, but we understand and respect his desire to play in Europe."

A shrewd signing - but questions will be asked

First of all, considering his age, the way he has burst onto the scene in 2015 and the fact he's now firmly a part of the national picture in America, this deal will leave plenty of supporters across the Atlantic feeling proud. He's now the fifth American player in England's top flight - after Brad Guzan, Tim Howard, Geoff Cameron and DeAndre Yedlin.

However, the way Chelsea operate in terms of transfer business could hinder his progress - unless he does get regular minutes. Whether that happens at Stamford Bridge, or out on loan experiences elsewhere. The likes of Baba Rahman and Papy Djilobodji will probably be regretting their summer moves to west London, considering the defensive pair have played less than ten appearances between them.

At 20, he's still young and has plenty of potential to fulfill. With this move, comes expectation. He may need time to acclimatise to the physicality of the League, or the changing pace and intensity in comparison to America. But one thing is for sure, it's a low-risk acquisition that could prove to be a bargain in a few years' time.

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About the author
Mosope Ominiyi
Writer and editor - European football analyst, youth enthusiast. Email: [email protected]