London, July 1 (DPA) Manchester United confirmed Wednesday that they have completed the signing of Luis Antonio Valencia from Wigan Athletic for a reported fee of 16 million pounds ($26.3 million).
The 23-year-old is United’s first signing since the world-record sale of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid and appears a direct replacement on the right.
Valencia, an Ecuador international, has signed a four-year deal.
“Antonio is a player we have admired for some time now, having spent the last two years in the Premier League with Wigan,” Alex Ferguson told the club website.
“I am sure his pace and ability will make a significant contribution to the team.”
Valencia joined Wigan in 2006, initially on loan from Villarreal before making his deal permanent last summer.
“Joining Manchester United is a dream come true for me,” he said.
“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.”
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