Epalle makes way for Anderson

Panathinaikos FC have confirmed the signing of midfield player Anderson de Lima Freitas from Halkidona FC, having released Joël Epalle, another midfield player, from his contract.

Panathinaikos dream
The Brazilian has signed a four-and-a-half year contract with the Athens club after Panathinaikos paid a reported €500,000 transfer fee. "Signing for Panathinaikos is a dream come true and I am extremely pleased," he said. "I promise to give my best to help Panathinaikos achieve their goals."

Transfer delay
The deal had initially been announced on Halkidona's website on Tuesday but Panathinaikos did not confirm the transfer until today as they needed to unload one non-European Union player from their squad before Anderson would be allowed to sign his contract.

Epalle released
Panathinaikos have made room for Anderson, a defensive midfield player, by allowing 26-year-old Cameroonian international Epalle to leave the club. He is now expected to make his Panathinaikos debut in Sunday's derby game against AEK Athens FC.

Eligible for Europe
Anderson, who turns 26 on 12 January, had been a regular at fifth-placed Halkidona this season, playing in all 13 of their league matches and scoring twice. Having not played in Europe for Halkidona, he will be eligible for his new club's UEFA Cup tie against Sevilla FC next month.