Paris Saint-Germain unveils Berchiche as instant Maxwell replacement
Paris Saint-Germain introduced left-back Yuri Berchiche to fans Friday in a deal that should cost the capital club around €15 million, according to Marca's Oscar Badallo.
The 27-year-old, who signed a four-year contract with PSG after agreeing a transfer from Real Sociedad, can instantly shuffle into the slot vacated by Maxwell following the Brazilian's retirement.
"I'm extremely happy and I can't wait to join Paris Saint-Germain," Berchiche said. "It will be an honour to wear the jersey of this club, which has become one of the best and most admired in Europe.
"I'm convinced that I will find here the perfect environment in which to reach my potential - by making progress and winning titles. Everyone knows how ambitious Paris Saint-Germain is in Europe. In conjunction with the staff and players, I will do all I can to help fly the Paris Saint-Germain flag as high as possible."
Berchiche appeared 35 times in La Liga last season, scoring three goals and crafting two assists, enhancing his reputation as a tough full-back, but one who's proficient with his deliveries off the flank.
129 - Only Juanfran (201), Pedro Leon (173) & Marcelo (149) made more crosses from open play than Berchiche (129) in Liga 2016/17. Paris.
— OptaJean (@OptaJean) July 7, 2017
PSG kicks off the campaign with the traditional Trophee des Champions curtain-raiser against Monaco on July 29, before beginning the new Ligue 1 term against Amiens at the Parc des Princes on Aug. 5.
HEADLINES
- Nasri contesting unpaid tax seizure after reported food delivery probe
- Latest transfer news and rumors: PSG preparing €55M bid for De Jong
- Monaco defeat Marseille for 7th consecutive Ligue 1 win
- Lyon held to draw at Angers as winless streak reaches 9 games
- Lens' title push hit hard by Lille defeat: 'We didn't turn up'