Official: Atleti sign Kranevitter

Matias Kranevitter says he is “grateful” and very happy” about joining Atletico Madrid from River Plate on a five-year contract

The Argentine's arrival brings an end to Atleti's summer-long search for a defensive midfielder, although he will not start playing for his new club until the conclusion of the Club World Cup in December, which River are participating in.

“I'm grateful to Atletico Madrid for this opportunity that they've given me,” he told Los Colchoneros' official website.

“I'm also very excited to be able to play in such an important competition like the Club World Cup with River Plate.

“It was great to win the Copa Libertadores with River after 19 years and I'm very thankful for the opportunity [of playing in the Club World Cup].

“Once I've participated in the tournament, I'll join Atletico, give everything from the beginning and try to adapt as quickly as possible to [Diego Simeone's] methods and Spanish football.

“I'm very happy with the agreement.”

News of Kranevitter's move has since been followed by initial target Thiago Motta extending his contract with Paris Saint-Germain until 2017.

Tags Matias Kranevitter River Plate Thiago Motta Transfers
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