Aleksandrov bolsters Ludogorets defence

PFC Ludogorets Razgrad have strengthened their already frugal defence with the signing of Aleksandar Aleksandrov on a free transfer from PFC Cherno More Varna.

The Bulgarian champions, who conceded only twice in winning UEFA Europa League Group B and have shipped just 12 goals in 22 A League matches this term, have not disclosed details of the contract the 27-year-old has agreed. Centre-back Aleksandrov left Cherno More at the end of 2013, making the last of his 219 league appearances for the Black Sea club in a 2-0 win against PFC Lokomotiv Sofia on 11 December.

"Everybody knows about Ludogorets' ambitions," said Aleksandrov, who made his debut for Bulgaria last year. "This is a step forward in my career and this club is ideal for my development. The competition for places is very strong, but I never hesitated when the offer came."

Pleased with his new player, coach Stoicho Stoev is now starting to focus on Ludogorets' UEFA Europa League round of 32 tie against SS Lazio on 20 and 27 February. "We have a chance," he said. "Lazio have a new coach [Edoardo Reja] and it will be very hard playing in Rome [in the first leg]. We will see what happens, but we will go there and try to play our best football."

Netherlands Under-17 winger Jeroen Lumu has also joined on three-year deal from Willem II. "I know a lot about Ludogorets. My future lies here and I know what to expect," said the 18-year-old. "I love playing as a striker but I'm also happy on the right wing."