Fulham have confirmed the signing of Spanish midfielder Jozabed from Rayo Vallecano this afternoon for a fee believed to be around £3.4m.
The Whites had long been linked with a move for the 25 year-old midfielder after they met his release clause from the relegated La Liga side and Jozabed travelled to London for a two-day medical last week, watching Fulham’s opening night win over Newcastle United from the Craven Cottage balcony. Jozabed has signed a three-year contract, with Fulham retaining an option to extend his deal by a further twelve months.
The 5ft 11in midfielder began his career by coming through the ranks at Sevilla then spent a season at Ponferredina and made his first real impression by scoring four goals in 36 appearances for Real Jaen in the Spanish second tier. He joined Rayo Vallecano in June 2014, making 50 appearances and scoring ten goals. Jozabed starred when deployed in a more advanced role for Rayo last season, scoring against La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid, as he side failed to win a prolonged battle against relegation.
Fulham fought off the attentions of several Spanish sides to secure Jozabed’s signature – although it remains to be seen whether he will be included in the squad for tomorrow’s trip to Preston North End.
