Fulham sign Rodallega on free transfer

Fulham signed Hugo Rodallega on a free transfer on Thursday after the Colombia striker opted not to renew his contract at Wigan.

Rodallega has agreed a three-year deal with the west London club subject to a work permit.

The 26-year-old spent the past three years with Wigan but decided to leave the DW Stadium when his contract expired last month.

Despite managing just two goals last season, Rodallega was chased by several Premier League sides and Fulham beat off Everton and Aston Villa to secure his signature.

Cottagers boss Martin Jol was delighted to win the race for Rodallega and he believes the forward will prove a valuable addition to his squad.

"I am delighted that Hugo has decided to join Fulham," Jol said. "There has been a lot of interest in him from other top flight teams in England and abroad, so to be able to add his quality to our squad is a massive boost this early in our preparations for the new campaign.

"He is a great addition and I think he will contribute very well to our style and philosophy here."

Rodallega, who scored 24 goals in 117 appearances for Wigan, added: "I wanted to stay in England and I'm delighted that I now have this opportunity with Fulham.

"I would like to thank the staff and fans of Wigan Athletic for three and a half wonderful seasons there.

"I'm looking forward to pre-season training with the rest of the Fulham squad and starting a new chapter in my career."