OFFICIAL: Real Madrid Sign Raul Albiol From Valencia

Real Madrid have officially confirmed the signing of defender Raul Albiol from Valencia on a five-year contract.

The centre-back, who has been on duty with Spain in the Confederations Cup, will be officially presented next week after undergoing a medical and formally signing his deal.

Los Merengues made the news official with a statement on their club website and Valencia quickly followed suit with a similar announcement that a deal had been agreed.

"Real Madrid and Valencia CF have reached an agreement for the transfer of the player Raul Albiol, an accord that will come into effect next week after the usual medical and the signing of a contract by the player," Madrid's notice read.

"The international defender, aged 23, will sign for the club for the next five seasons and will be presented next week."

Valencia's statement was similar in tone, but los Che did wish the player good luck in his new surroundings at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"The club want to highlight the exemplary behaviour that Albiol has had throughout his time at Valencia and the club would like to wish the best of luck in the new chapter in his career."

Born in the Valencia region, Albiol rose through the ranks at Mestalla and broke into the first team after recovering from a car accident in 2004.

A loan spell at Getafe went well and he stepped up to become a regular in the Che outfit, while representing Spain at Under-19, Under-20,  Under-21 and now full international level.

Lucas Brown, Goal.com

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