Calderon proud to clinch Diarra for Real Madrid

Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon is delighted with the imminent capture of Olympique Lyon midfielder Mahamadou Diarra.
 
Hopes of Diarra pulling on the Real shirt for Wednesday night's Bernabeu trophy clash against Anderlecht have cooled as the two clubs need at least 24 hours to translate contracts today.

However, Calderon declared last night: "He's the one who the trainer had asked us to sign, he considered him essential and therefore we are very happy about being able to provide him. Capello considered his signing high-priority."

Calderon also remarked: "He is a player that is fundamental in the middle of midfield, he will help Emerson a lot and in addition he can complete the defensive side of the team. Which has been a weakness in the past."

"Capello already says that we are going to concede very few goals this season. I am very excited because I believe that he is a great player. I speak like a fan when saying that he is an exceptional player, wanted by very many clubs, but Real Madrid has a great attractiveness for any player and we have managed to convince him that here is where he can be his best."