Riera raring to go at Bordeaux
Thursday, July 31, 2003
Article summary
FC Girondins de Bordeaux have signed Spanish midfield player Albert Riera Ortega from RCD Mallorca.
Article body
FC Girondins de Bordeaux have finalised a surprise swoop for Spanish midfield player Albert Riera Ortega from RCD Mallorca.
Long-term deal
The attack-minded 21-year-old has agreed a five-year contract with the Ligue 1 side, and will replace last season's loan signing Savio Bortolini who has joined Real Zaragoza. Riera scored four goals for Mallorca in the 2002/03 Primera División season and played a major part in their Copa del Rey success.
Coach excited
Speaking to the club's official website, Bordeaux coach Elie Baup said: "Riera is a great hope in Spanish football and he has huge potential. He is excellent on the left with a great left foot. He is a hard worker who has already been trained to play in a 4-4-2 system. I feel he is going to be excellent on the left side."
Monaco first
Riera's arrival, for a fee reported to be in the region of €4-5m, will be a boost to Bordeaux after the departure of Portugal striker Pauleta to Paris Saint-Germain FC earlier this month. He is Bordeaux's fifth summer signing, following the arrival of Marco Caneira, Mauricio Pochettino, Deivid and Paulo Costa. Bordeaux start the new season on Saturday at AS Monaco FC.
