English football club Bournemouth has confirmed the signing of AS Roma forward Juan Iturbe on loan for the rest of the season.
The former Argentina Under-20 international, who was capped at the senior level for Paraguay at just 16 years of age, will join Eddie Howe's side subject to FA endorsement and European work permit.
"The Cherries retain the option to make the switch permanent in the summer for an undisclosed fee," Bournemouth said in a statement on Friday.
Iturbe, 22, began his career in Paraguay with Cerro Porteño, before making the move to Europe with Potuguese club Porto at the age of 18. After successful loan spells with River Plate and Verona, the explosive winger made a permanent switch to Roma in summer 2014, where he scored three goals in 39 league appearances.
"It is a big opportunity for me to come and play in the Premier League", he told Bournemouth's official website, afcb.co.uk on Saturday.
"At first I didn't know a lot about Bournemouth as a club, but the more I read and the more I found out about how much they wanted me made it an easy decision. To go to a place where you feel really wanted, essentially that was the overriding factor. I'd like to thank everyone for making this move happen and I am very pleased to be here."
Iturbe enjoyed his first training session with the Cherries on New Year's Day, and says he is looking forward to contributing to their efforts on the pitch.
"I have been to England once before only, as an opponent to play football," he said.
"My initial impression of Bournemouth is that it is a peaceful place, very nice and you have the sea here; but my main concern is to get my head down, play football and help the team."
