Fulham have stepped in to sign France defender Philippe Christanval.
Fulham have stepped in to sign France defender Philippe Christanval on a free transfer.The one time rising star of French football has been seeking a new club since being released by Marseille at the end of last term.
Arsenal handed the defender a trial during the summer, but he failed to truly convince Arsene Wenger of his merits and returned to France to mull over his options.
His availability alerted Cottagers chief Chris Coleman and a deal was wrapped up on Thursday, with Fulham handing the 27-year-old a three-year deal.
Coleman will clearly hope that Christanval can find the form which made him one of Europe's hottest properties earlier in his career, and the defender is ready to repay the Welshman for handing him the chance to shine in The Premiership.
'I am happy to join Fulham and to play in the Premier League where each match is played at an exciting high tempo," Christanval told the club's website.
"There is a nice atmosphere around the training ground and I am looking forward to working with all of the players and being a big part of Fulham's future campaigns."
Coleman has expressed delight at swelling his squad with a quality defender.
"I am glad that we have been able to add another new face to the squad to give us the strength in depth that I felt we have been lacking," said Coleman.
'Philippe's credentials speak for themselves and I have no doubt that he will prove to be a model professional and a great addition to the squad."
