FC Barcelona signs French defender Digne through 2022

Barcelona, July 13 (IANS) FC Barcelona announced Wednesday the signing of French defender Lucas Digne from Paris Saint-Germain, for five football seasons and a transfer fee of 16.5 million euros ($18.3 million).

The 22-year-old spent the 2015/2016 season on loan to AS Roma, which allowed him to play two Champions League matches against Barcelona during the group stage, netting one home draw (1-1) and a sobering 6-1 away loss, reports Efe.

Digne's new contract includes a variable clause worth four million euros that is dependent on the number of future team titles won and his individual performance throughout next season.

Digne was selected by his national team for the recent Euro 2016 but did not take part in any game.

He is set to be presented to fans on Thursday at the Camp Nou Stadium.

Digne faces tough competition from Jordi Alba, the undisputed starter in the left-back position for Barcelona chief coach Luis Enrique, as well as from Brazilian Adriano Correia and Frenchman Jeremy Mathieu.

PSG signed Digne three years ago from LOSC Lille, although last season he was loaned to AS Roma, where he made 29 appearances and scored three goals.

Born in Meaux on July 20, 1993, Digne is an athletic 'lefty' with a powerful sprint and an offensive streak that fits perfectly with Barca's attacking style.

Digne won two French Ligue 1 titles during his stay at PSG, as well as the 2013 under-20 World Cup with France alongside central defender Samuel Umtiti, who was also signed by Barcelona in June.

Digne is Barcelona's third incoming transfer this summer, after the arrival of Umtiti and Spanish attacking midfielder Denis Suarez.

--IANS

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