Stekelenburg and Bernardo loaned to Monaco

AS Monaco FC have signed Netherlands goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg and promising SL Benfica midfielder Bernardo Silva on loan for the season.

On the eve of their first Ligue 1 game this term, at home to FC Lorient, the UEFA Champions League group stage contenders have welcomed "a talent for the future" in Bernardo according to vice-president Vadim Vasilyev. Stekelenburg comes from Fulham FC, who were relegated from the Premier League last season before he missed out on the FIFA World Cup.

Portuguese Under-21 international Bernado turns 20 tomorrow but only made three senior appearances for Benfica last season. Instead he played regularly for the B team as they finished fifth in the second division and was three times the league's player of the month.

"I'm very happy to join Monaco," he said. "They're a great side, I already know their history. I can't wait to start training. I hope I can help the team to get trophies back this season."

Stekelenburg, 31, added: "I am happy to be a part of the project at the club. I am going to give my all for my new colours. I am a technical goalkeeper. I like playing out of my goal and helping the team."