Bundesliga side Hannover 96 have announced the signing of Portugal defender Joao Pereira from Valencia.
Pereira was linked with a switch to Arsene Wenger's Arsenal just days ago, but Hannover have pushed a deal over the line for the 30-year-old to head to Germany.
The Bundesliga club have secured Pereira, who started in all three of Portugal's group games at the 2014 World Cup, on a six-month contract.
Pereira's deal also contains an option for a further year if both club and player are happy with the outcome of the move in the summer.
The Portuguese defender has been handed the number 17 shirt and Hannover sporting director Dirk Dufner is delighted the Bundesliga side have got their man.
relatedNewsStory
Dufner told his club's site: "His international experience speaks for itself. Joao Pereira has taken part in the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2012 for Portugal, has played in the Champions League and Europa League, and has made over 230 appearances in the first divisions in Portugal and Spain.
"I’m delighted that he has opted for Hannover 96 and the challenge of the Bundesliga."
Pereira started his career in the youth ranks at Lisbon giants Benfica, but rose to prominence through spells with Gil Vicente, Braga and Sporting Lisbon.
The defender joined Valencia in 2012 for a fee of €3.6m.
Like betting on football? Check out our sister site Inside Bet. Free bet offers, betting tips, betting facts. Visit Inside Bet.
