Olympiacos bring in striker Valdez

Olympiacos FC have announced the signing of Paraguay striker Nelson Valdez from al-Jazira Club.

The 30-year-old has reportedly penned a six-month deal with an option to further extend his stay. Valdez, who has 12 goals in 66 internationals, said: "I am proud to be part of a club with a great tradition like Olympiacos." The Greek champions' coach Míchel extolled the virtues of the player at a press conference on Wednesday. "He is a good player and we believe he can help us," he said. "He is strong with the ball at his feet and in the air. Olympiacos fans will love him."

Valdez moved from his homeland to SV Werder Bremen at the age of 18 and went on to score 21 goals in 80 league matches before departing in 2006. Four years at Borussia Dortmund followed as well as stints at Hércules CF, FC Rubin Kazan and Valencia CF prior to his move to al-Jazira last summer.

Olympiacos host Manchester United FC in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg on 25 February with the return on 19 March.