France international Steven Nzonzi, a World Cup winner in Russia, completed his switch to Roma from Sevilla on Tuesday after signing a four-year deal with the Italian side.
The 29-year-old midfielder was greeted by dozens of Roma supporters as he arrived at the airport in the Italian capital, before the club posted images of the player having a medical.
Roma paid an initial fee of €26.65 million for Nzonzi, who featured in five of France’s seven games at the World Cup, including an appearance off the bench in the 4-2 win over Croatia in the final.
“I feel very happy to be here, and to be a new Roma player,” Nzonzi told the club’s official website.
“I really felt that the club wanted me to come. I will give my best on the pitch, and hopefully be a very good player for this team.
“I always want to improve – regardless of age, the most important thing is to give your best and work hard. I want to do that, to become a better player and help the team with my play and experience.”
Nzonzi joined Sevilla from English club Stoke in 2015, and was part of the team that beat Liverpool 3-1 in the Europa League final in 2016.
“Steven is a footballer with a mix of physical and technical qualities that we think will really add to the players that we already have here,” said Roma sporting director Monchi, who left a similar role at Sevilla for Italy last year.
“With his arrival, we have even more quality and competition in midfield.”
Roma, who finished third in Serie A last season and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League, begin the new campaign away to Torino on Sunday.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!