Kevin De Bruyne had been linked with a return to Germany ever since he lost his place in the Chelsea side under Jose Mourinho. After spending last season on loan at Werder Bremen where he scored 10 league goals in a hugely impressive campaign, there was only one country appealing to De Bruyne with the World Cup in mind.

And Chelsea have now confirmed that the 22-year-old has joined Wolfsburg for an undisclosed fee. A statement on their website read: “Kevin De Bruyne has today completed a move to Wolfsburg. The Belgian joins the Bundesliga club having made five starts for Chelsea, with a further four appearances as a substitute.”

De Bruyne is delighted to have completed his move to Wolfsburg after signing a five-and-a-half-year contract. According to Yahoo! Eurosport, the attacking midfielder said, “For me it was clear from the start that Wolfsburg would be the first people to talk to when Chelsea said I could go.”

He added, “I am very pleased that my transfer has come about. I want to play my part in ensuring we continue to be successful and return to international business (in European competitions).”

Chelsea have already signed Nemanja Matic to add more steel to their midfield. His arrival ensured De Bruyne, who made only three league appearances this season, would be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge after failing to impress Mourinho.