Lille capture striker Youla

Lille have strengthened their attacking line-up, with the signature of Souleymane Youla.

Fresh from securing the third UEFA Champions League spot in Ligue 1, Claude Puel's side have added to their ranks with the powerful front-man.

Youla has signed from Besiktas for ‚é¼1.6 million (£1.1 million) on a four-year deal, but had been on loan at French club Metz since January.

He was contracted to the Turkish club until 2008, but instead has become Lille's first signing of the summer.

He attracted interest with some impressive displays for the Stade Saint-Symphorien outfit, but could do nothing to prevent their relegation from the top flight this season.

Besiktas meanwhile finished a disappointing third in the Turkish Super League, 30 points behind champions Galatasaray.