Real Madrid sign Cannavaro and Emerson

Real Madrid announced they had agreed a fee with Juventus to take Fabio Cannavaro and Emerson to the Bernabeu. The duo are currently on holiday but it is believed they have negotiated two-year deals (estimated to be worth 20 million euros) with further one-year options.

The arrivals of Cannavaro, 32, and Emerson, 30, represent a major coup for Madrid and are definitely good news for their fans. Both were highly coveted by top European clubs but still the lure of playing for Real Madrid proved to be irresistable. The presence of former Juventus coach Fabio Capello as the coach of Real Madrid may also be a strong pull factor.

Under the new president Ramon Calderon, who came to power earlier this month, the days of the galacticos are over and they have now place emphasis on buying solid players rather than those who can delight the fans. In the past, it has been pointed out that the defence needs more cover but Madrid's management insisted on buying strikers like Owen and Robinho. They have paid the price for this policy with two barren seasons.

On paper, the impressive credentials of these two players should strengthen Real Madrid's fragile backline. Cannavaro was the outstanding defender at the World Cup while Emerson's best position is patrolling in front of the back four. Barcelona's stranglehold on the championship will be tested severely this coming season.

Meanwhile, the exodus from Juventus may just get worse. The court ruling has condemned them into Serie B next season and with a 30-point deficit, effectively meaning they will spend at least two seasons outside the top flight. The future of players like Buffon, Nedved, del Pierro, Vieira, Luca Toni will be known very shortly...