Brazilian playmaker Diego has completed his "dream" move
to Juventus from Werder Bremen, for a fee of €24.5m.
The 24-year-old, who helped steer Werder to the UEFA Cup
and German Cup finals this season, had two years left on his
contract with the Bundesliga side but had made it clear that he
wanted a new challenge.
Diego's performances also attracted the interest of German
giants Bayern Munich but after signing a five-year contract with
the Bianconeri he said: "I'm enthusiastic about Juventus
and proud to become part of such a prestigious club, which I have
dreamed about since I was a child."
The Brazil international, who joined Werder from Porto in 2006,
added: "After the experiences in Portugal and in the Bundesliga I
will be able to measure up to football of a very high level in a
difficult and very competitive championship.
"It's the right time in my career to make such an important step
and I'm convinced that with Juventus I'll achieve great
results."
Diego's arrival is aimed at filling the gap created by Pavel
Nedved's expected retirement. Juve also hope Diego can spur them to
success in the Champions League and on the home front next season.
Claudio Ranieri's failure to do so cost the coach his job last
week.
Juventus, who are currently in the hands of caretaker boss Ciro
Ferrara, also have a deal to bring Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro
back from Real Madrid despite widespread supporter opposition.
The 35-year-old centre back, soon out of contract at Real, left
for Spain in 2006 when Juve were demoted for match-fixing, while
other top players such as Alessandro Del Piero and Gianluigi Buffon
stuck with the club for their season in the second tier.
