Dujuan ‘Whisper’ Richards has officially completed his move to Chelsea from Phoenix Academy, the international football club said on Friday.

Richards had signed with Chelsea in June of last year, and trained with the first-team squad during the club’s pre-season tour of the United States, the club said. During that announcement Chelsea had said that Richards would join the club after his 18th birthday in November.

“I’m so pleased to be here. My dream was always to sign a professional contract and to have the chance to do that here at Chelsea, it’s difficult to put into words the emotions. I just can’t wait to get started,” Richards said in an interview with Chelsea.

The young forward received training at the Phoenix All Stars Football Academy, which he joined at the age of 11.

Craig Butler, founder and chief executive officer of Phoenix All Stars Football Academy, congratulated Richards on his achievement.

“Whisper I am proud beyond measure. You have taken the step. Congratulations on joining the Chelsea Football Club. Thank you for putting your faith in me and Phoenix Sports Management to deliver your opportunities. Now go for it … HARDDDD,” Butler wrote in a post on Instagram.

Richards, described as a prolific goalscorer at youth level, was handed his senior international call up in 2023 against Trinidad & Tobago where he scored his first international goal.