Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Benfica midfielder Erdal Rakip on loan until the end of the season.
The 21-year-old only joined Benfica from Malmo three weeks ago but has been allowed to leave and join Palace with immediate effect.
Rakip has become Palace boss Roy Hodgson’s first signing as head coach.
The Eagles manager is no stranger to Swedish football having guided Malmo to five back to back league titles in the 1980s.
Rakip came through the youth system at Malmo and helped them win the Allsvenska, the Swedish league title, last season.
The 21-year-old who has played 16 times in the Champions League described playing for a ‘legend’ like Hodgson an honour.
“I believe this is a league that suits me and my way of playing,” Rakip told the official club website.
“It’s fast-paced and physically intense, and I’m a classic, balanced number six – a box-to-box player who runs up and down the field.
“I hope to adapt quickly in order to help the team and show my qualities. I have been training since the season ended and I feel fit and ready to play straight away.”
On Hodgson, Rakip added: “It will be an honor playing for Roy. He is a legend in Malmo and everyone know who he is.”
