Alavés opt for Helguera

Deportivo Alavés have announced the surprise signing of Udinese Calcio's Luis Helguera.

Hometown option
The midfield player, who is the brother of Real Madrid CF's Spanish international Iván Helguera had been linked with hometown club Racing Santander, but instead signed a one-year loan deal with Alavés, who have the option of buying him at the end of the season.

'It is very nice'
"I am very happy because anything that means going back to Spain is good news," said Helguera. "Alaves are a Spanish side and it's close to home, which is very important for me. As well as that I will play in the UEFA Cup. I played in it last season and it is very nice."