Spanish giants FC Barcelona have just signed Valencia defender Jeremy Mathieu for £16million.

The Frenchman, to some extent, is a shocking acquisition since he is already 30 years old.
His five-year tenure at the Mestalla, wherein he served as the rock of the back-line, was apparently enough to convince new coach Luis Enrique to bring him in.

"Jérémy Mathieu is officially a new FC Barcelona player. After passing his medical and physical exams at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper this Thursday, the Frenchman went to the Camp Nou to sign his four-year contract," read a statement on the Barca's website.

"Mathieu's transfer fee was 20 million euros and his buyout clause is set at 50 million euros. The agreement with Valencia for the player's services was reached this Wednesday."

"President Josep Maria Bartomeu and Vice-President Jordi Mestre accompanied the player during the signing ceremony at the Camp Nou. Along with Football Director Andoni Zubizarreta, the group posed for photos in the Presidential Box of the stadium. Mathieu will wear the number 24 on his kit, the number that up until now was worn by Sergi Roberto."

After signing big names like Luis Suarez, Ivan Rakitic, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the Blaugrana seem to be running out of choices to fill their defensive line, after primary target David Luiz opted to move to Paris Saint-Germain.

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Barcelonas newly signed French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu poses while wearing his new jersey during his presentation at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona
Barcelona's newly signed French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu poses while wearing his new jersey during his presentation at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona July 24, 2014. REUTERS/Albert Gea
French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu poses for pictures upon his arrival at FC Barcelonas offices in Barcelona
French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu poses for pictures next to a giant logo upon his arrival at FC Barcelona's offices in Barcelona July 23, 2014. Mathieu will sign a four year contract and be presented on Thursday. REUTERS/Albert Gea
Barcelonas newly signed French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu waves while wearing his new jersey during his presentation at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona
Barcelona's newly signed French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu waves while wearing his new jersey during his presentation at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona July 24, 2014. REUTERS/Albert Gea
Barcelonas newly signed French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu wears his new jersey during his presentation at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona
Barcelona's newly signed French soccer player Jeremy Mathieu wears his new jersey during his presentation at Camp Nou stadium, in Barcelona July 24, 2014. REUTERS/Albert Gea
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