PARIS, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain consolidated their midfield after signing Leandro Paredes from Russian Premier League outfit Zenit Saint Petersburg on Tuesday.
After completing a medical examination at Aspetar Hospital in Doha, the Argentinian midfielder penned a contract with PSG until June 30, 2023.
The 24-year-old Buenos Aires native started his career with local side Boca Juniors before moving to Italy, where he spent two seasons at AS Roma, playing in 54 matches.
Paredes moved to Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2017, contributing ten goals and 15 assists in 61 matches across all competitions. He has also netted once in nine appearances for Argentina's national team.
"I'm very proud to be joining Paris Saint-Germain," said Paredes. "After my previous experiences in Italy and Russia, I now have this fantastic opportunity, not only to discover a new league, but above all to wear one of the most prestigious club's jersey in the world.
Leandro will wear the number eight jersey for PSG.
"I share the same high ambitions and I will do everything I can to give my club what it expects of me as a midfielder. I also look forward to the passionate atmosphere of the Parc des Princes, as I grew up with football fever in Argentina," he added.
With Marco Verratti sidelined with an ankle injury and Adrien Rabiot out of favor after agreeing a summer switch to Barcelona, Paredes' arrival is a welcome boost for PSG, who take on Premier League side Manchester United in the Champions League round of 16 first leg on February 12.
"Leandro brings with him the traditional strengths of Argentinian football - a fighting spirit and excellent technical skills. He will bring a lot to our midfield and I am sure he will fit quickly into our coach's well-organized and ambitious team," said Nasser Al-Khelaifi, chairman and CEO of Paris Saint-Germain.
"Leandro's arrival will keep the momentum, both on the pitch and among our supporters, ahead of the major events coming up. Exciting times lie ahead."
