Hannover completes Franca transfer

Hannover has completed the signing of 21-year-old defensive midfielder Franca from Brazilian side Coritiba, the club announced.

The Brazilian youngster joins Johan Djourou and Andre Hoffmann as the club's new signings this winter and has already passed a medical. He has signed for Die Roten on a three-and-a-half-year deal, keeping him with the club until 2016, and he will join up with American right back Steve Cherundolo and the rest of his new teammates on Tuesday.

Hannover director of sport Jorg Schmadtke praised the quality of the club's new acquisition.

"Franca ... is in good physical condition and he brings with him a great passion for the game," Schmadtke told the club's official website. "He is a rugged-type of player who will, in my opinion, forge a career with us."

Club coach Mirko Slomka also spoke with optimism on Franca's potential impact in the near future.

"I look forward to working with Franca and I am sure that he is motivated and ambitious and looking to seize his chance," Slomka said. "I have great experience working with South Americans and I appreciate their commitment and their enthusiasm for learning. I am convinced Franca is no different."