Chelsea hire Graham Potter from Brighton as Thomas Tuchel replacement

Chelsea have announced Graham Potter as their new manager, replacing Thomas Tuchel, who was sacked on Wednesday.

Potter, who joins from Brighton & Hove Albion, becomes the 30th manager in Chelsea's history — the first managerial appointment under new American owner Todd Boehly, who sacked Tuchel after 100 games in charge.

— Marcotti: Will Chelsea regret sacking Tuchel? — Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, MLS, more (U.S.)

He joins Chelsea on a five-year deal, with sources telling ESPN that Chelsea have paid a fee in the region of £16 million to release him from his Brighton contract.

«I am incredibly proud and excited to represent Chelsea FC, this fantastic football club,» Potter told the club's website on Thursday. «I am very excited to partner with Chelsea's new ownership group and look forward to meeting and working with the exciting group of players and to develop a team and culture that our amazing fans can be proud of.

»I would also like to place my sincere thanks to Brighton & Hove Albion for allowing me this opportunity and in particular Tony Bloom and all the players, staff and supporters for their continued support during my time at the club."

ESPN reported on Wednesday that former Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino and ex-Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane were also initially shortlisted for the role alongside Potter.

Potter, 47, known for his attacking style, helped Brighton to a ninth-place finish in the Premier League last season. He has also coached at Swedish side Ostersund, which he guided to an unlikely Europa League group stage berth, and Swansea City.

Chelsea made nine summer signings with a record transfer spend of more than £250 million, but the investment has yet to improve results on