Murcia sign South American pair
Tuesday, December 30, 2003
Article summary
Transfer round-up: Struggling Spanish side Real Murcia CF have signed Leonel Gancedo and Iván Hurtado.
Article body
South American duo Leonel Gancedo and Iván Hurtado have joined Primera División side Real Murcia CF in their battle against relegation.
Spanish experience
Versatile midfield player Gancedo started out in his home country Argentina with Argentinos Juniors and CA River Plate but is well-versed in the rudiments of the Spanish game having spent the past three seasons in the top flight with CA Osasuna.
Key player
29-year-old Hurtado was a key cog in Barcelona SC's championship-winning side last season. His experience as captain of the Ecuadorian national side should help to steady younger nerves in the Murcia rearguard as the La Condomina club battles to avoid the drop back to the Segunda División. Murcia sit in 19th place in the table with 12 points - and face leaders Real Madrid CF in their opening league game of 2004.
Léonard move
Elsewhere, Belgian defender and free agent Philippe Léonard has joined OGC Nice until the end of the season. The Ligue 1 club have an option to retain the player for two further years if he impresses at the Du Ray stadium.
