Joan Verdu signs for Real Betis

Real Betis have completed the signing of 30-year-old midfielder Joan Verdu from Espanyol on a four-year deal, the club confirmed on Monday.

“Real Betis have incorporated midfielder Joan Verdu into their squad the for the next four seasons after passing a medical at the club’s health facilities,” said a statement on the club’s website.

“Verdu and Real Betis have made a big effort to bring about his arrival at the Benito Villamarin to be one of the pillars of the green and whites in their return to European competition.”

The former Barcelona man had failed to agree a new contract with Espanyol after a broadly successful four-year spell with the Catalans in which he became one of their most consistent performers.

Verdu made 37 league appearances last season, scoring nine goals and providing three assists in the process.

Betis meanwhile secured their highest league position since the 2004/05 campaign to finish seventh and qualify for the Europa League next season.