CHELSEA have beaten Newcastle United to the signing of Jamaican youngster Dujuan ‘Whisper’ Richards.

Richards, who is a full Jamaican international with three senior caps to his name, travelled to Tyneside for a trial in the second half of last season.

The 17-year-old spent around a week in the North-East, working with Newcastle’s academy players and staff, and the Magpies had been interested in offering him a full-time deal.

However, Chelsea made a move of their own shortly after Richards returned to Jamaica, and the Blues have won the race for the teenager’s signature.

Richards’ current club, Phoenix All Stars, suggested that Chelsea was the striker’s likeliest destination earlier this month, and the Blues have now confirmed that the youngster will officially move to Stamford Bridge once he has turned 18 in October.

A Chelsea statement said: “Chelsea has completed the signing of Jamaica international Dujuan ‘Whisper’ Richards, who will join the club next season following his 18th birthday.

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“A prolific goalscorer at youth level, the 17-year-old was handed his senior international debut earlier this year against Trinidad & Tobago. Richards’ first start for his country came three days later against the same opposition and he completed 90 minutes against Qatar earlier this month. Richards has also been selected by Jamaica for the upcoming Gold Cup.”

Richards had previously spoken of his excitement at travelling to Newcastle to undergo a trial, but having opted for Chelsea, the striker is now 100 per cent focused on making it with the Blues.

“What a dream come true,” said Richards. “When I am 18 years old, I will be able to play in the Premier League and for a club like Chelsea, Champions League winners and with such a high pedigree.”