Korea Republic - K-League newcomers Inchon United have signed Turkish international Alpay Ozalan to anchor their defence for their debut season in the Korean top flight.
Alpay, a key member of the Turkey side that finished third at the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan, inked a two-year deal with the Korean side worth a reported US$1 million annually. He effectively becomes the most high-profile import player ever to play in the K-League.
According to the Korea Times, the 31-year-old defender signed his deal during a ceremony at Inchon city hall on Wednesday.
"I'm so delighted to join Inchon United and appreciate the warm welcome of all the staff on the team," said Alpay during the ceremony. "I would like to try my best to lead the newly-born team to the championship this season."
Alpay has been without a club since October, when his contract with English Premiership side Aston Villa was terminated by mutual agreement, following his controversial clash with England national captain David Beckham in a Euro 2004 qualifier in Istanbul.
Inchon United are coached by German Werner Lorant, who was formerly in charge of Turkish side Fenerbahce, where Alpay used to play.
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