Liverpool take on Pellegrino

Mauricio Pellegrino has agreed a free transfer to Liverpool FC after being released by Valencia CF.

Six-month contract
The Argentinian central defender is reunited with manager Rafael Benítez, who himself left the Spanish champions for Anfield in the summer. Pellegrino had made just two appearances this season for Valencia after suffering injury and falling out of favour, and has signed a six-month contract at Liverpool, although there are a few formalities to tie up before he is eligible to play.

'Very satisfied'
"I feel very satisfied," said the 33-year-old, whose contract at the Mestalla had been due to expire in June. Pellegrino played for Valencia in two UEFA Champions League finals - in 2000 and 20001 - and won two Primera División titles and the UEFA Cup with the club.

Ineligible for Europe
"At my age it is a great satisfaction that this opportunity comes along. I have always wanted to play in English football," he added. However, having played against Werder Bremen in the Champions League in September, the defender is not eligible to represent Liverpool in that competition this season.

Joined from Barcelona
Pellegrino started out in his home country with CA Vélez Sarsfield where he won the Copa Libertadores and European/South American Cup in 1994. He joined Valencia on a free transfer from FC Barcelona, where he had spent a single season in 1998/99.