Bournemouth complete loan move for goalkeeper Mandas

Greek goalkeeper Christos Mandas says "a magical atmosphere between the players and the fans" helped sway his decision to join Bournemouth on loan from Lazio.

New Bournemouth signing Christos Mandas holds up a jersey by the club crest
Mandas has represented Greece at every age group from under-16 [Getty Images]

Bournemouth have completed a loan deal for Greek goalkeeper Christos Mandas from Italian Serie A side Lazio.

The 24-year-old joins until the end of the season with a further option to buy.

The Cherries are paying a 1.5m euros (£1.3m) loan fee and they will need to pay an extra £860,000 if they opt against signing him on a permanent deal.

If they choose to make the move permanent, he will cost £16m.

Mandas, who becomes the club's first Greek player, has made 33 appearances for Lazio since joining from Greek side OFI and has won two international caps.

"When I knew Bournemouth were interested, I wanted to come here," he said.

"It feels like a magical atmosphere between the players and the fans, and I like the way the team plays, so it is the right move."

Bournemouth's head of football operations Tiago Pinto added: "We're excited about the impact he can make as he brings a sense of maturity and composure, while also continuing his development as a player."

He is the second goalkeeper to move to Vitality Stadium this month following the arrival of 37-year-old former Tottenham and Celtic stopper Fraser Forster on a six-month deal.

Category: General Sports