Martins excited by Levante move

Obafemi Martins says he was instantly sold on the idea of joining Levante after holding discussions with sporting director Manolo Salvador.

The 27-year-old will ply his trade at the Ciutat de Valencia for the next two seasons with the option of a third, following his release from Rubin Kazan.

He had previously enjoyed spells in Italy, England, Germany and Russia with mixed success, but is now ready to reboot his career in Spain with last year’s surprise packages.

“The team’s doing well and I hope to play with my new colleagues,” Martins said. “I’m here now and I hope to score many goals.

“I spoke with Manolo Salvador, and since then I’ve always wanted to come here, so I must thank him.”

Martins is expected to fill the void left by 2011/12 top goalscorer Arouna Kone, who left Levante in August to sign for Premier League outfit Wigan.

Levante have four points from their first three matches in La Liga and are placed 11th ahead of Sunday’s trip to Malaga.