Maldonado joins Fenerbahce

Claudio Maldonado has joined Fenerbahce this evening. The Chilean international midfielder had been linked with a move to Serie A and Fiorentina were considered favorites for his signature, but the Turkish giants have won the race.

Fenerbahce was reportedly seeking a strong midfield player with defensive skills after Stephen Appiah, who transferred from Juventus in 2005, was seriously injured and could be out of action for the remainder of the season.

Signing Maldonado, a 39-time international, might make up for Appiah's absence as Fenerbahce looks toward the second round of the Champions League, where it faces Sevilla.