Greek champions Olympiacos FC have signed defender Iván Marcano on loan from Villarreal CF for the 2011/12 season.

Former Spain Under-21 international Marcano, who turns 24 next Thursday, can play in the centre or as left-back and joins a team assured of a UEFA Champions League group stage berth. Marcano links up with Spanish coach Ernesto Valverde and compatriots Albert Riera, Moisés Urtado, Javito and David Fuster. Fuster left Villarreal for Olympiacos a year ago.

"I chose to come to Olympiacos because it's a challenge for my career," said Real Racing Club academy product Marcano, who was loaned to Getafe CF last season. "Before arriving I spoke to David Fuster and I know many things about the Greek league. I look forward to competing here and helping my new team once again win the league."