Royals sign Cisse

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The 22-year-old Frenchman, who has spent the last two seasons with the Portuguese side, becomes Steve Coppell's first signing of the summer.

Royals director of football Nicky Hammond said: "Kalifa is a 6ft 2ins central midfielder who has also played in defence. He has real athletic ability and the technical attributes that should be well suited to the Premiership."

Hammond, speaking to the club's website, added: "Having spent time with him and his family in Portugal, we believe he will adapt quickly to life in England and his personality will fit very well with the current squad."

Royals chairman John Madejski believes the signing of Cisse, who will cost just under £1million, is another sign of the club moving in the right direction.

He said: "To sign Kalifa so soon after the end of the season shows this club's ambition to do well in the Premiership next year.

"I'd like to welcome this highly-regarded player to Reading and I'm delighted we've secured his signature. He is also a very nice character, which is important."