Real Madrid have completed the signing of Ezequiel Garay from Racing Santander.
The highly-rated Argentine was linked with a number of other clubs including Barcelona but Real have won the chase.
The 21-year-old centre-back may remain on loan at Racing for another season but Real president Ramon Calderon has confirmed reports of a deal.
"We've signed Garay," Calderon told reporters during Real's celebrations of their 31st league title.
"I don't know if he will come to the club this season or next, but we have signed a contract.
"He is a young player and the signing is proof of our desire to create a young, committed team full of enthusiasm and ambition."
Garay, who is recovering from a knee injury, is reported to have cost Real in the region of 10million euros (£8million).
His arrival is expected to pave the way for the departure of either Fabio Cannavaro or Christoph Metzelder.
10 Million is a steal. The reason the fee is so low is because it will be paid in one lump sum. Also, he might stay at Racing Santander for one more season- on loan.
Barcelona had an agreement earlier in the season for 18 Million paid in 4 installments.
as far as Barcelona.. I expect Ronaldinho, Deco, Edmilson, Zambrotta to definitely leave. These players dont want to be there, and the club/fans dont wantthem. Henry is a strange case because he didnt meet the high expectations but hes performed very well in certain games. Its not clear how Pep Guardiola feelsabout him. Eto'o is a wildcard. There is tension between he, management, and the fans. However, he wont go for cheap. The transfer fee would have to bearound 30-40. If Eto'o goes, I think Henry stays. Gudjohnsen will probably go back to the Premiership. I wonder, why dont Chelsea move in for him? Theresno way he can be worse than Pizarro. Chelsea fans love Eidur.
