Celtic sign Dutch defender Loovens

Scottish champions Celtic signed Cardiff defender Glenn Loovens for an undisclosed fee on Saturday.

Loovens agreed a four-year deal with Gordon Strachan's club, who are believed to have paid around three million pounds (3.8 million euros) for the Dutch centre-back.

The 24-year-old had been a long-time target of Celtic's Glasgow rivals Rangers, but the lure of Champions League football persuaded him to move to Parkhead.

Loovens, who helped Cardiff reach last season's FA Cup final, said: “It really is a tremendous honour to sign for a club of Celtic's stature.

“I am really looking forward to playing for a team that has such an incredible history and well-known and passionate supporters.

“The club has enjoyed great success in recent years, winning titles and cups in Scotland and doing well in the Champions League.

“I am looking forward to the challenges here and hope to play my part in further honours. I just can't wait to get started.”