Stoke City boss Mark Hughes believes they've pulled off a coup signing Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma.

Zouma has joined on a season-long loan.

“Kurt is undoubtedly one of the most talented young defenders in the game, so naturally his arrival will enhance our playing squad for the forthcoming campaign," Stoke manager Hughes told the club's website.

“We have prioritised adding further strength in depth to defensive positions this summer, and we have certainly done that by fending off any number of clubs who were all interested in taking Kurt on loan.

“He first caught my attention as a 17-year-old during his time at St Etienne, and in fact, I actually tried to sign him at that point in his career, but while that deal never materialised I am delighted to finally get the opportunity to work with him now.

“On his day he is one of the most impressive defenders in the league, and while injury unfortunately hampered his progress at Chelsea last season, we are certain that we can give him the platform to recapture the form he showed prior to his setback."