Patrick Bamford has signed a new three-year contract with Chelsea and joined Crystal Palace on a season-long loan.
The 21-year-old was due to be out of contract at Stamford Bridge next summer, but has now committed until the end of the 2017-18 season, despite not yet playing for the Blues' first team.
He joins Palace after spending last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he scored 17 goals to be named Championship Player of the Year.
BREAKING: #CPFC are delighted to announce the signing of @Patrick_Bamford on a season-long loan from @ChelseaFC. pic.twitter.com/8kWxY7ntn0
— Crystal Palace FC (@CPFC) July 21, 2015
Speaking to the Chelsea website, Bamford said: "My dream has always been to be part of this club for the long term.
"Chelsea have been fantastic with my development and joining Crystal Palace for this season on loan is the next step for me in my career.'
The England Under-21 international is Palace's second signing of the summer after the arrival of Yohan Cabaye.
"It's a coup for Crystal Palace ahead of a host of rivals," manager Alan Pardew told the Eagles' website. "I'm so pleased he chose us over others to help develop his game.
"Hopefully he will be a star for us, Chelsea and – of course – England."
Palace are also thought to be on the verge of signing goalkeeper Alex McCarthy from Queens Park Rangers.
Pascal Lemesre
