Premier League newcomers Middlesbrough have today confirmed the signing of ex-Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes.
Valdes, 34, is one of the most successful ‘keepers in the game but will now be hoping for a prominent period in the Premier League following a turbulent spell at Manchester United.
The experienced shot-stopper fell out with former Red Devils manager Louis van Gaal and was swiftly sent out on loan to Standard Liege last season.
Now, though, Valdes will embark on yet another new challenge as he prepares for life with Middlesbrough.
Following the deal, manager Aitor Karanka said: “You can’t imagine how delighted I am because it’s not usual to bring players like him to recently promoted teams.
VALDES SIGNS
“I’m really pleased because he is really committed. All the the conversations we’ve had he knows why he is here and he is coming to add to what we have.
“He knows how strong this group is. It’s a privilege for us to be able to bring a player like this to the club.”
It’s fair to say, then, that the new boys landing Valdes has certainly taken the world of football by surprise.
Valdes may well be approaching the latter stages of his career, but not too many people would have expected him to be plying his trade at the Riverside stadium.
REACTION
As you can imagine, there has been a great deal of reaction on social media. Here are the best tweets:
Victor Valdes has signed for Middlesbrough.pic.twitter.com/N3lNcFwIRo
Sure Valdes played with Messi, but now he’ll play with the one & only Dave Nugent.
1 cap. 1 goal. 100% record. Hero. pic.twitter.com/6TcJ9wvAzS2 years ago Victor Valdes lived in Barcelona. Now he’s moving to Middlesbrough. Van Gaal that.
Haha Victor Valdes has lost the plot
Imagine waking up from a coma and seeing Victor Valdes at Middlesbrough, Wales in semis of euros & Leicester as Premier League Champions.
Victor Valdes will be in the Premier League this season, his ex-F*R*I*E*N*D Louis van Gaal will not.
Do you expect Valdes to succeed next season? Have your say below!
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Its better to be where u are needed!
It’s his call…