Ivory Coast midfielder Yaya Toure said he was looking forward to the challenge of playing for Barcelona after completing his move to the Spanish club.
Toure, who cost Barca from €9m Monaco, became Barca’s second summer signing following the arrival on Monday of Arsenal forward Thierry Henry.
The 24-year-old, the younger brother of Arsenal centre-back Kolo Toure, has signed a four-year deal.
“I feel ready for the challenge. I really wanted to play in a club like this and I’m going to give it my all,” said Toure.
Barca president Joan Laporta was delighted with his latest signing.
“He is one of those players that are vital to have,” said Laporta. “He has got a great future, he’s strong physically, good technically. He has eveything to become a talisman for Barca.”
Barca sports director Txiki Begiristain compared the new signing to French midfielder Patrick Vieira.
“He is a strong player with a great physical presence and an ability to distribute the ball well. He’s a ball-winner and is good in the air,” Txiki Begiristain said.
“He is similar in style to Patrick Vieira but we shouldn’t put him under pressure always comparing the two.”
Toure admitted that Vieira, now with Inter, was a role model for him.
“Vieira has many good qualities but I think I do as well and I am keen to demonstrate them. I hope I can live up to the expectations,” he said.
