Calderon delighted as Real Madrid unveil Higuain

New Real Madrid signing Gonzalo Higuain is excited by the prospect of playing alongside fellow strikers Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ronaldo.

"I want to thank Ramon and everyone who made this move possible," said Brest-born Higuain, who recently rejected a call-up from France coach Raymond Domenech, claiming he is not yet ready to choose between Argentina and Les Bleus.

"I am going to try and do the best that I can, to be here a long time and to win titles. I am happy to be here and proud and I want to win the respect of my team-mates and coaching staff."

"I'll do what I know best. I am not going to waste this opportunity."

Higuain, who becomes the 26th Argentinian to join Real's books, will link up with his new team-mates on December 30 after the Real players return from their 10-day winter break.

He will be competing with Brazilian ace Ronaldo and prolific Dutchman Ruud van Nistelrooy for a spot in the Real forward line, but Higuain is looking forward to the challenge.

"I know that I have come to compete with the best players in the world. Alongside them I am going to learn a lot," he said.

President Calderon said at Higuain's presentation: "Real Madrid, as promised, are working on their future project. The club have finished incorporating a new member into their family, on of the new young prospects of international football."

"He made his First Division debut three seasons ago and played three matches. He played 14 matches the following season and scored five goals. This season, he played 18 games with a total of eight goals. In the 'Clasico' against Boca, he scored a brace that no-one will ever forget."

He was named 'Sports Revelation of the Year' by an Argentinian newspaper thanks to his sporting and human values because, despite his success, he remains humble.

"There were many clubs who wanted him, but he has decided to come here, where we have received him with open arms."