Chelsea sign ex-Milan keeper Amelia

Ian Watson
Marco Amelia: Joins Chelsea until the end of the season

Marco Amelia: Joins Chelsea until the end of the season

Chelsea have completed the signing of former Italy international goalkeeper Marco Amelia on a free transfer.

Boss Jose Mourinho has drafted in the 33-year-old free agent as cover for Asmir Begovic, with first-choice Thibaut Courtois currently out injured.

Former AC Milan keeper Amelia has agreed a contract until the end of the season and will be available for the Blues when they return to Premier League action against Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge a week on Saturday.

The former Italy international began his career with Roma and also spent four years at AC Milan, before joining Serie B side Perugia last season.

He had been training with the Blues at their Cobham headquarters and impressed enough to earn a deal.

Academy keeper Jamal Blackman, 21, who has yet to make a first-team appearance, has been on the Chelsea bench in recent weeks.

Courtois is expected to be back in action in December after suffering knee ligament damage in training last month.