Fulham has officially secured the services of 22-year-old forward Gonzalo Garcia, who joins the west London club from Real Madrid. The transfer is reported by Spanish media to be valued at approximately 40 million euros, or 46 million dollars, with Real Madrid maintaining a 30% sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Garcia is coming off his most productive season to date, having netted eight goals for Madrid, six of which were scored in La Liga. His campaign was highlighted by a notable hat-trick against Real Betis in January.
The move to Fulham sees Garcia reunite with head coach Arbeloa, who was appointed by the club earlier this summer. Arbeloa previously managed within Real Madrid’s youth system before stepping into the head coaching role following the departure of Xabi Alonso in January.
In addition to Garcia, Fulham has also acquired 21-year-old attacking midfielder Cesar Palacios from the Spanish giants. Palacios had recently broken into the Real Madrid first team under the guidance of Arbeloa before making the switch to England.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is undergoing a significant squad overhaul after finishing two consecutive seasons without winning a major trophy. The club has appointed Portuguese veteran Jose Mourinho as their new coach to succeed Arbeloa.
