Middlesbrough has completed the signing of goalkeeper Victor Valdes on a free transfer. 

The former Barcelona shot-stopper has signed a two-year contract with Boro, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2017-18 season.

Boro beat off stiff competition to the land the Barcelona legend after an 18-month spell with Manchester United came to an end earlier this summer, reports the Middlesbrough website.

The 34-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the Boro side, having made over 500 appearances for Barcelona during a trophy-laden career which includes a World Cup winners medal in 2010, a Euro 2012 winners medal, three Champions League successes, and six La Liga titles.

Boro manager Aitor Karanka feels delighted to have signed a player of his stature, stating that it’s a privilege to have him at the club.

‘You can’t imagine how delighted I am because it’s not usual to bring players like him to recently promoted teams,’ Karanka said.

‘I’m really pleased because he is really committed. All the conversations we’ve had he knows why he is here and he is coming to add to what we have.

‘He knows how strong this group is. It’s a privilege for us to be able to bring a player like this to the club,’ he added.

Valdes becomes the fifth signing of the summer, following the capture of Viktor Fischer, Bernardo Espinosa, Marten de Roon, and young defender Jordan McGhee.

Image: Middlesbrough website