New Chelsea goalkeeper Asmir Begovic says a move to Stamford Bridge was always his "preferred destination".
The Bosnia-Hercegovina international signed a four-year contract with the Blues and will take over from Petr Cech who joined Arsenal.
He is Chelsea's second signing of the summer after striker Falcao joined on loan from Monaco.
"This is one of the best clubs in the world and it's a dream for me to sign," the goalkeeper told the club's official website.
"Once I knew Chelsea were interested, and after speaking to Jose Mourinho at length, I knew this was where I wanted to be. It feels amazing and I'm absolutely thrilled.
"This was always my preferred destination. Leaving Stoke was difficult because I had some great times and shared some great memories with the people there.
"I really enjoyed being part of that club but I'm just glad everything worked out and that I'm here now and ready to go.
"He [manager Jose Mourinho] explained what he expects, what the club expects and told me what it means to be part of Chelsea Football Club.
"I was very much attracted to the whole challenge, for me that was the biggest thing. He didn't make any guarantees; it's just about coming in here and working hard.
"I need to earn my place and show my qualities. I'm confident I can make an impact.
"Being part of a team that wins trophies is what it's all about, I think that was the next step for me in my career and it's certainly something the manager can help me with."
