Transfer season has started early in Greece as Olympiacos have already moved in to seal the signature of Fenerbahce’s winger Mathieu Valbuena.
The interest towards the 35-year-old was a common secret to everyone at Piraeus, as the red-and-whites had attempted to sign him last season as well.
They found more fertile ground for an agreement this time around however, as his contract with the Turkish side was nearing its end and the player was tempted by the challenge of the Champions League.
Valbuena has signed for a single season with the club, however depending on his performance could potentially extend his stay.
Word of Valbuena’s transfer to Olympiacos travelled all over the world, with popular news agency L’Equipe pointing out that “after two seasons spent in Fenerbahce, the international midfielder has signed for Olympiacos Piraeus, currently second in the (Greek) championship”.
Fans in Greece headed to the club’s headquarters to get an autograph and take a selfie with the well-known Frenchman.
Valbuena didn’t leave anyone disappointed, taking many pictures and videos as elated fans chanted his name before he returned to his hotel.
The speedy winger has played for some of the most well-known French clubs, including Olympique Marseille and Olympique Lyonnais, and he has also participated in two World Cups (2010, 2014) and one Euro (2012) with his national team.
Valbuena is known for scoring spectacular goals and setting up his teammates with clever assists.
With this addition, Olympiacos have now closed a huge gap in their roster as they will need to have completed all preparations in time before the kick-off to the 2nd round of the Champions League qualifiers, with the first leg being played on 23-24 July.