Valencia seals dream move

• Melayusentiasa

  1 Jul 09, 11:32

  

  Manchester United have completed the signing of Wigan winger Antonio Valencia, with the player describing the move as a "dream''.

  The Ecuador international has been tracked by United for the last 12 months and new Wigan boss Roberto Martinez has been unable to persuade him to stay at the DW Stadium.

  United have not disclosed the fee they have paid to the Latics, though it is thought to be around £16m, after signing the player on a four-year contract.

  The 23-year-old is the first player signed by Sir Alex Ferguson as they look to replace Cristiano Ronaldo following his £80m move to Real Madrid.

  "Joining Manchester United is a dream come true for me,'' he told United's official website. "I have enjoyed my time at Wigan, but I am thrilled to have the chance to challenge for the biggest honours in club football here.

  "Playing in front of 76,000 fans alongside players like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs will be an amazing experience. I can't wait to get started.''

  United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said: "Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last two years in the Premier League with Wigan. I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team.''

• limpper

  1 Jul 09, 11:47

  Valencia signs with Manchester United

  Antonio Valencia has signed with Manchester United from Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee.

  The Ecuador international has signed a four-year deal with the Premier League champions, delighting manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

  "Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last two years in the Premier League with Wigan,” Ferguson told the club’s official website.

  "I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team."

  Valencia, 23, admitted signing with the Red Devils was a dream come true and could not wait to take the pitch with Old Trafford superstars.

  "Joining Manchester United is a dream come true for me," said Valencia.

  "I have enjoyed my time at Wigan, but I am thrilled to have the chance to challenge for the biggest honours in club football here.

  "Playing in front of 76,000 fans alongside players like Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs will be an amazing experience. I can't wait to get started."