Official: Benfica sign Real Madrid's Ezequiel Garay
The Portuguese giants have followed their recent swoop for Axel Witsel by strengthening their defence with the Argentine international, formerly of Racing Santander
Portuguese league runners-up Benfica have moved to reinforce the centre of their defence with the signing of Real Madrid defender Ezequiel Garay on a permanent deal.
Jorge Jesus' men have been eyeing up a defender to partner Brazilian international Luisao since the departure of David Luiz to Premier League side Chelsea in January and have found their man in the 24-year old Argentine.
The club revealed the transfer this evening in a short statement on their official website although as yet there are no details regarding either the transfer fee or the length of contract handed to Garay.
Garay, who broke through in European football with Racing Santander, struggled to establish himself as a first-choice defender last season following the signings of Raul Albiol and Ricardo Carvalho, which led to him making a paltry five league appearances.
The defender is currently on international duty with Argentina in the Copa America and he will join up with his team-mates following the conclusion of the tournament.
Benfica's signing of Garay would appear to end their interest in Standard Liege's highly sought-after defender Eliaquim Mangala, who had also attracted interest from Udinese. Garay is the second major signing this week following another Standard player, midfielder Axel Witsel, who cost around ?8 million.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3277/la-liga/2011/07/16/2577974/official-benfica-sign-real-madrids-ezequiel-garay[ 本文被RMadrid在2011-07-17 15:49重新編輯 ]
