Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has signed for Fulham, agreeing a two-year deal.
The Bulgarian, 31, was wanted by several clubs, including Italian sides Fiorentina and Juventus, but opted to remain in the Premier League.
Fulham have refused to disclose how much they paid for the striker.
“As soon as I was aware of Fulham’s interest, my decision to join was an easy one,” said Berbatov, who played under Fulham boss Martin Jol at Spurs.
“I’m impressed with the set-up here and the people have made me feel welcome. There is a close and personal feel around the club and I can’t wait to get started.”
Jol added: “Dimitar is a player I’ve always admired. He’s a player of great quality and technical ability who will give me the attacking option I’ve been looking for. When he’s not scoring goals, his ingenuity often leads chances being created for his team-mates.”
Fiorentina thought they had tied up a deal for Berbatov. They claimed they had been given permission by United to speak to the player but that he failed to turn up in Florence for talks after they had paid for his flight.
“We are happy he did not come to Fiorentina,” read a club statement. “He did not deserve our city and our shirt and the values it represents.”
Berbatov in England
May 2006: Joins Tottenham from German side Bayer Leverkusen in a £10.9m deal
May 2007: Scores 23 goals in debut season at White Hart Lane
May 2008: Matches the tally during the following campaign as Spurs win League Cup
July 2008: Spurs complain to Premier League over Manchester United’s pursuit of the Bulgarian
September 2008: United finally clinch his signature in a £30.75m deal on the final day of the summer transfer window
May 2009: Scores nine top-flight goals as the Red Devils win the Premier League title
May 2011: Wins Golden Boot after scoring 20 goals to help United win title
