Falcao ready to 'install Monaco in Euro elite'

Colombia striker Radamel Falcao is aiming to help his new club Monaco become one of the best in Europe again, following his recent move to the Mediterranean principality.

“I am pleased that Monaco placed their confidence in me. They persuaded me with their plans for the future. We all want to install Monaco among the elite of European football,” Falcao said after training with Colombia on Thursday, on the eve of their 2014 World Cup qualifier against Argentina in Buenos Aires.

In Monaco, former Atletico Madrid striker Falcao will team up with another Colombian, winger James Rodriguez, who has agreed to move to the Principality from Porto.

“We have a very good understanding, not just in footballing terms but personally too,” said Falcao. “He is a great player, that is why Monaco paid so much money for him.”

Rodriguez moved to Monaco in a joint deal with Portugal midfielder Joao Moutinho worth some 70 million euros ($93m).

No fee was revealed for Falcao’s transfer, but it is believed he cost in the region of 60 million euros ($79m).