Olympique Lyonnais have completed the signing of France international midfielder Mathieu Valbuena from Russian Premier League side Dynamo Moscow for an undisclosed fee.
Valbuena, who scored four goals in 36 appearances in all competitions for Dynamo last season, has put pen to paper on a three-year deal at the Stade de Gerland.
“I don’t regret anything with Dynamo Moscow where everything went well the first season but for my second year, the sporting objectives were no longer in line with what I wanted,” Valbuena said.
“We know Lyon’s level after a very good 2015 season and also qualifying for the Champions League. All that played a role in my decision.
“I’m delighted to join Lyon. I arrive with a lot of humility and ambition to win titles, to bring experience.
“I was keen to return to France and with the interest shown by Lyon, I jumped at the chance.”
In addition, the France international, 30, is hoping a return to Ligue 1 will boost his chances of making Les Bleus’ Euro 2016 squad.
“Obviously a European Championship or a World Cup is something very important. The French team, I’ve never denied it is my engine,” added Valbuena.
“It’s something very important to play for your country. I didn’t hesitate a single second to return with so many objectives for this year which looks like being very exciting.”
Lyon are priced at 16/1 to win the French Ligue 1 title in 2015/16.
Shaqiri delighted with Stoke move
Stoke City record signing Xherdan Shaqiri has revealed his delight after completing a £12 million move to the Britannia Stadium on Tuesday.
The Switzerland international, 23, has signed a five-year deal with the Potters and will be in immediate contention to start against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on Saturday.
“I am very happy, and incredibly excited that this transfer to Stoke City has finally happened,” Shaqiri said.
“Over the past three days I have met great people at the club and witnessed the wonderful atmosphere at the Britannia Stadium on Sunday. That experience was overwhelming.
“My special thanks go to the manager, Mark Hughes, Chief Executive Tony Scholes and Mark Cartwright for their work in helping to make this deal happen over the past few months.
“I sincerely appreciate it so much, and will give my utmost to pay them and the supporters back on the pitch over the coming months and years.
“I can’t wait to meet my new teammates and make my debut for the Club. It feels great to finally be a Potter!”
Shaqiri bagged one goal and two assists in 15 Italian Serie A appearances for Internazionale Milano last term.
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