German winger Marko Marin says he turned down a move to Tottenham Hotspur in order to join Chelsea.

The Blues confirmed a deal for the 23-year-old over the weekend, with the Werder Bremen star penning a five-year deal at Stamford Bridge.

And Marin has revealed that in signing for Chelsea, he rejected a move to rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

"Chelsea is my dream club," Marin told Sport-Bild.

"I'm happy that I get the chance to play for them. It is a challenge for me.

"Tottenham Hotspur were also interested, but I opted for Chelsea, because they suit me well."

Marko Marin
Marin will join Chelsea in the summer.

Chelsea are reported to have signed Marin for a fee in the region of £6.5 million, with the diminutive attacking player likely to fit in on the left of the club's attack.

The move comes as a surprise, with a long-term successor to Andre Villas-Boas yet to be appointed, as Roberto Di Matteo continues as interim boss.

The Italian has done his hopes of becoming the permanent boss no harm having guided Chelsea to the FA Cup final, beating Spurs in the semi-final, and last week to the Champions League final, as Barcelona were toppled at the last four stage.

Meanwhile their fight to qualify for the Champions League via their league position continues, with just a point separating them from fourth placed Tottenham Hotspur, however victory over Bayern Munich in the European Cup final would assure them a place in Europe's premier club competition next term.

With no boss having been permanently appointed, transfer dealings were expected to be few and far between, and Di Matteo admits he played no part in the recruitment of Marin.

"I tend to give my recommendation but, ultimately, the club decides who they want to sign," Di Matteo said.

"He's a very good player, technically very good, skilful.

"He will add some qualities to this team."

A host of players are expected to leave Chelsea this summer, with Salomon Kalou, Florent Malouda and Didier Drogba among those whose future is uncertain.