Benfica have completed the signing of Lisandro Lopez from Argentina outfit Arsenal de Sarandi.
The
23-year-old defender has signed a five-year deal for an undisclosed
fee, with his contract believed to include a €35 million buy-out clause.
Lopez
has frequently been overlooked for Argentina duty by coach Alejandro
Sabella despite impressive performances for Arsenal, and he admitted his
desire to break into the Albiceleste coach's plans was a significant factor in his decision to move.
"I
have chosen Benfica because they are one of the biggest clubs in Europe
and many Argentines have succeeded here," Lopez told Benfica's official
website.
"I am anxious to start. If I play well here I may get a chance in my country's national team."
Lopez
revealed he had been persuaded to join the Europa League finalists
after compatriot Pablo Aimar had extolled the benefits of life in the
Portuguese capital.
"He said Lisbon was beautiful and Benfica was huge and magical. He told me to enjoy my stay here to the full," Lopez added.
Lopez
becomes Benfica's seventh signing of a busy summer so far, following
Stefan Mitrovic, Lazar Markovic, Miralem Sulejmani, Filip Djuricic and
Uros Matic – as well as central defender Steven Vitoria.
Lopez's
arrival could cast further doubt over the future of Ezequiel Garay, who
has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer.
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