Swansea City boss Michael Laudrup has made his third signing of the new campaign by securing the signature of attacking midfielder Michu from Rayo Vallecano for around £2m.
The 26-year-old Spaniard, whose full name is Miguel Perez Cuesta, completed a medical at the Liberty Stadium late yesterday before signing a three-year deal which was completed this afternoon, subject to international clearance.He returned to Spain last night, but is set to return and join his new team-mates on Sunday for Swansea’s 12-day pre-season tour of America.The signing is a huge boost for Laudrup’s new Barclays Premier League squad after the 6ft 1in Spaniard scored 15 goals in La Liga last season to earn rave reviews.
His goal-tally saw him help save struggling Rayo from relegation and end the La Liga campaign as the division’s leading marksman from midfield.
“I’m very happy,’’ declared Michu. “I had other offers, but I really wanted to come to Swansea because of the coach (Michael Laudrup), the style of play and the Premier League.
“I’ve always followed the Premier League from Spain and I watched a lot of Swansea games last season. They played good football and I liked their style.
“I also know how Michael Laudrup’s teams play, so I’m looking forward to being part of that. The coach (Laudrup) was fundamental to me joining Swansea. I remember watching him as a player – he was a machine,’’ joked Michu.
“I’m a bit sad to leave Rayo because they gave me my chance in the first division in Spain. I will always be grateful to them for that.
“The supporters have also been good to me. That’s why I wanted to return to Spain last night to thank them personally via a press conference this morning. I wanted to leave in a good way.
“But the chance to play in the Premier League is a fantastic opportunity for me. I believe the Premier League is a better than La Liga, so it’s a chance for me to improve as a player.’’
Michu is also looking forward to meeting fellow new signings Chico and Jonathan de Guzman.
“I know them both from playing against them in La Liga,’’ added Michu. “They are not only good players, but knowing them will also help my adaption to life over here.’’
Michu also confirmed that he had already spoken to Swansea’s Spanish defender Angel Rangel before agreeing to sign.
“We know a mutual friend,’’ he explained, “so we started texting recently. He told me he was very happy here and it was a great club.
“I’ve had a look at the stadium already and it is spectacular. Angel told me it was always full for every game and the fans are very passionate, so I’m really excited about the challenge ahead.’’
Michu began his career with local club Real Oviedo in the lower leagues, before moving to Celta de Vigo B in Segunda División B in 2007.
His contract with Celta expired in June 2011 and he signed a two-year deal with Rayo Vallecano who were freshly promoted to the top division of La Liga.
Physical, tall, hard-working and strong, he became a fans favourite with his ability to time his arrivals into the box earning him 15 league goals and two in the cup.
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