Chelsea have finally completed the signing of Bolton’s Nicolas Anelka after the two clubs agreed a £15m fee. The French striker, who has signed a 4½-year deal, could be in the side to face Tottenham as early as tomorrow.

A statement on the Chlesea website confirms the deal: “Chelsea Football Club and Bolton Wanderers can confirm that terms have been agreed between the clubs for the transfer of Nicolas Anelka.” Bolton’s website has a similarly worded message.

Chelsea’s opening offer of £11m was rejected by Bolton earlier this week. They held out for their full asking price for their leading goal scorer.

Chelsea are also hoping to finalise the transfer Lokomotiv Moscow’s Serbian defender Branislav Ivanovic for £10m and they hope that a work visa will be granted next week.