Sánchez adds to Schalke strike force

FC Schalke 04 have continued to strengthen their squad with the €1m signing of Uruguay striker Vicente Sánchez from Mexican side Deportivo Toluca FC.

Prolific scorer
Sánchez becomes Schalke's fourth recruit of the winter break following the arrivals of Albert Streit, Levan Kenia and Zé Roberto. "He was our No1 candidate as he is fast, a good dribbler and has an eye for goal," said Schalke general manager Andreas Müller. The forward scored 71 goals in 200 top-flight matches for Toluca, and has also registered five in 26 internationals.

Slomka praise
The 28-year-old, whose contract will run until June 2011, said: "I have heard only good things about Schalke. They are one of the best clubs in Europe and I hope we will achieve a lot this year." Coach Mirko Slomka, who is allowed to make three changes to his UEFA Champions League squad before the first knockout round tie against FC Porto, said: "Sánchez can and will improve our quick game. Seeing what he can do on the ball and how dangerous he is in front of the goal, he will certainly be a big asset." Schalke have also told 19-year-old midfielder Mesut Özil that he can leave once his deal expires in summer 2009.