Fulham sign Argentinian striker

Fulham have signed Argentinian striker Facundo Sava on a four-year contract which will keep him at the club until the summer of 2006.

The 28-year-old moves to the Cottagers from Argentinian side Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, who he joined from Boca Juniors in 1997.

Sava finished top scorer for his club last season with 12 goals as La Plata narrowly conceded the championship to River Plate. He helped La Plata qualify for the Libertadores Cup, South America’s equivalent of the Champions League.

Sava told the club’s official website www.fulhamfc.co.uk: ‘‘I am extremely happy to have come to England to sign for Fulham Football Club. The move is a big step for me and I will try to give my best for the team.’’

The club’s director of corporate affairs Chester Stern added: ‘‘We are delighted to have completed the first signing of the new season which will undoubtedly strengthen the squad.

‘‘Facundo has had a successful season with La Plata and I am sure that he will make an impact in the Premiership.’’

Sava will officially become a Fulham player pending international clearance.