Written by Ross Mackiewicz
Chelsea centre-back Ricardo Carvalho is set to end his six year stint in West London as Chelsea agreed his £6.6million sale to Real Madrid.
The 32 year old has been one of the Premier League’s standout defenders since his arrival from Porto in 2004 where he reunited with former boss Jose Mourinho following his appointment to build Roman Abramovich’s empire.
His future had been a subject of debate during the course of the summer following his public declaration of wanting to link up with his compatriot at Madrid for a third time. Both endured unprecedented success together at FC Porto and Chelsea before Mourinho departed The Blues in September 2007. Now the Portuguese defender is set to get his wish of one last hurrah with ‘the special one’ as the Double winners released a statement confirming his departure.
“Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has agreed terms with Real Madrid for the transfer of Ricardo Carvalho.
“The transfer is subject to a medical and the player agreeing personal terms.
“Chelsea would like to thank Riccy for his six years of service, and we wish him well in his future career.”
Madrid also released a statement on their official web-site confirming the news. Carvalho made 210 appearances for Chelsea where he won a hat-trick of Premier League titles and FA Cups. He also won two League Cups and two Community Shields.
His sheer dedication and outstanding defensive ability worked in conjunction brilliantly. His tireless work ethic never went unnoticed by his peers as he picked up the ‘Chelsea player’s player of the year in 2008.’ The club’s support held ‘Riccy’ in high esteem and will wish him all the best in the Spanish capital.
