Fuentes in Villarreal heaven

Fabricio Fuentes is delighted to be joining 'one of the best teams in the world'.

The Argentine defender transferred to the Estadio El Madrigal last week, clinching a three-year deal with Manuel Pellegrini's side.

Villarreal already have a strong Argentine contingent and Fuentes believes that is testament to their status as one of the globe's top clubs.

"I am very happy to have the chance to play at Villarreal because this team is one of the best in the world," he enthused.

"All the South American players wish to be transferred to Villarreal and I was lucky enough to be chosen.

"I am going to give my best for the team and to make sure I am satisfied with my own performances."

Fuentes declared that he was convinced beyond all doubt when he listened to Argentina team-mates Juan Roman Riquelme and Leandro Somoza ahead of the friendly against Brazil.

"I have wanted to come to Villarreal for a long time because I know that this team has a lot of big ambitions," he said.

"While I was in London on duty with the national team I had the chance to talk with Riquelme and Somoza and they told me many nice things about Villarreal which motivated me even more."