Adán makes Betis move, Paulão faces lay-off

Liga strugglers Real Betis Balompié have signed former Real Madrid CF goalkeeper Antonio Adán, a free agent, on an unspecified contract.

The 26-year-old recently rescinded his deal with Serie A side Cagliari Calcio, after making just two appearances following his move to Italy in November. The keeper, who made seven top-flight appearances for Madrid between 2010 and 2013, said: "I am well aware of the situation the club finds itself in but I felt I had to take this brave step. The important thing now is to be realistic. It's a difficult time but the fundamental aim is that we give everything we have on the pitch."

Adán arrives on a day when Betis confirmed that defender Paulão will undergo a hernia operation on Wednesday. The centre-back, 31, suffered discomfort in his groin following Betis's 4-2 Liga loss away to RC Celta de Vigo on Friday. Tests revealed that the Brazilian requires surgery that is likely to rule him out for a month, meaning he will miss the UEFA Europa League round of 32 first leg encounter at home to FC Rubin Kazan on 20 February. Paulão has made 19 appearances in all competitions for Los Verdiblancos this season.