Turkish international star Arda Turan is finally set to make his official Barcelona debut today against Espanyol in the Spanish Cup Last 16 first-leg tie at the Camp Nou.

The bearded winger is expected to start for the reigning La Liga champions this evening or at least make an appearance at some stage.

Turan did of course sign for Barcelona back in summer as did Aleix Vidal – also set to make his debut – but the Champions League title holders were unable to register either player due to the FIFA transfer ban imposed on the club.

The 28-year-old winger was along with Vidal finally permitted registration on Monday 4 January.

Turan received the number 7 shirt replacing Pedro who joined Chelsea over the summer while Vidal was given the number 22.

The Barcelona winger has managed to stay match fit due to playing regularly for the Turkish national team who are unbeaten in their last 10 games with Turan in the side.

Turan played a major role in Turkey booking a place in the European Championships this summer and has three goals and five assists in his last eight games for the Crescent-Stars.

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