PSG Confirms Signing of Zenit Midfielder Leandro Paredes

Chelsea had reportedly had its eyes on Leandro Paredes as a replacement for Cesc Fabregas, but PSG has won the race to sign the Argentine midfielder.

Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed the signing of Leandro Paredes from Zenit Saint Petersburg, who has joined the Ligue 1 giants in a deal believed to be worth around €50m.

The tenacious midfielder has been closely monitored by Chelsea for much of the January transfer window, with the Argentina international emerging as a prime candidate to replace Cesc Fàbregas. However, Blues boss Maurizio Sarri will now have to look elsewhere, and could be forced into a panic buy with just three days left before the transfer deadline.

Les Rouge-et-Bleu announced the news on their official Twitter page, introducing their new signing with a message from his international teammate Ángel Di María. 

The arrival of Paredes should set in motion the exit of wantaway midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who will leave the club at the end of his contract after failing to agree terms of an extension.

Paredes began his senior career with his boyhood club Boca Juniors, before going on to play for Serie A sides Chievo, Roma and Empoli. The 24-year-old then secured a move to the Russian Premier League with Zenit, where he scored four goals in his debut season. The player is known for his ability to dictate the play, and is graced with enviable technical skills.