Chelsea have announced the signing of Harrison Bettoni from Wigan Athletic on the back of a breakout season in League One. Bettoni becomes Chelsea's fifth signing of the summer so far.
Bettoni, 18, made 27 appearances for Wigan last season and scored four times, one of which was voted their goal of the season. His former club states that the two teams have agreed on a significant compensation fee for their academy graduate and made multiple long-term contract offers. football.london understands that Chelsea's plan is for the 18-year-old to play under-21s football this season before going out on loan next term. However, at around 6ft 2in, he can also play further forward, also featuring in a front two.
Last season's standout moment came on his debut against Wimbledon. After coming on midway through the second half with Wigan a goal behind, he scored a free-kick within seconds of coming on to equalise. Then, three minutes from time, he finished off a counterattack to complete the comeback.
Announcing Bettoni's exit, Wigan managing director Sarah Guilfoyle said: "As a club, we made every possible effort to retain Harrison. "We thank Harrison for everything he has contributed during his time with us and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career." "We offered Harrison multiple strong and competitive long-term offers to remain at Wigan Athletic, reflecting both the high regard we have for his ability and the importance we saw him having in our future. "Ultimately, every player reaches a point where they must make a decision they believe is right for their career. "We've worked closely with Chelsea to agree a compensation package that reflects the time, care, and investment our Academy has put into Harrison's development from a young age.
Wigan, meanwhile, are building up to a third straight season in the third tier. The Latics finished 15th last term, re-appointing Gary Caldwell as their boss in February. They travel to newly promoted Cambridge United as the League One campaign kicks off on August 15.