Valencia swoop for Real Madrid's Gago
Friday, July 20, 2012
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Argentina midfielder Fernando Gago is the latest new face to arrive at Valencia CF, the 26-year-old joining new coach Mauricio Pellegrino, João Pereira and Andrés Guardado.
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UEFA Champions League contenders Valencia CF can rely on the services of defensive midfielder Fernando Gago for the next four seasons after the Argentinian international agreed to leave Real Madrid CF for a fee reported to be in the region of €9m.
The 26-year-old – who has won 38 international caps with the Albiceleste – spent last season on loan at AS Roma where he scored once in 30 Serie A games. He had previously netted once in 92 top-flight matches for Madrid after signing for the club from CA Boca Juniors for €20.5m in December 2006.
"It was a quick decision in deciding to come here as they spoke of good things to me at the club," Gago informed a press conference after his presentation in front of 3,000 fans at Mestalla.
"It's a positive change for me on footballing and personal grounds. My objective is to play as many games as possible and to help the team. I'm here to win titles."
Valencia – who finished third in the Liga last season, thus cementing a place in the 2012/13 UEFA Champions League group stage – have also brought in new coach Mauricio Pellegrino, Portuguese full-back João Pereira and Mexican midfielder Andrés Guardado ahead of the new campaign.
