Chelsea’s Tomas Kalas declared he turned down offers from German clubs and Arsenal before opting to sign for Carlo Ancelotti’s Blues.

Speaking to iDnes.cz, the former Sigma Olomouc defender explained how Bayer Leverkusen, Hoffenheim and the Gunners were all interested in signing him but after evaluating the situation about his future, he opted for Chelsea, a club which left the best impression on the defender.

Kalas said that even though the Arsenal academy is renowned for being one of the best in Europe, he puts Chelsea on the same level in terms of how impressive their academy is.

It is reported that the likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and Bayern Munich were also interested in the Czech who should be loaned out to Sigma Olomouc for at least one year before returning to the Premiership.

The 17-year old said:

There were rumours flying around already during the spring, but at that time there were more clubs around me.

It became more specific only after the U-17 European Championship in Liechtenstein in May. Chelsea scouts were present there.

I have been to both Bayer Leverkusen and Hoffenheim from the Bundesliga and also Arsenal, but the best impression was left on me by Chelsea.

People say that Arsenal are famous for their academy, but from what I could see during my days at Chelsea, that really impressed me. Even my dad thought of Chelsea as the best option. Moreover, I have been a Chelsea fan since I was a little kid.

I am convinced I have made the right decision by joining Chelsea. After all, by this I am making my dream come true.