Melchiot signs with Qatari club Umm Salal

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
DOHA, Qatar — Wigan defender Mario Melchiot will become the latest high-profile signing by a Gulf team after agreeing a two-year deal with Qatari club Umm Salal for an undisclosed fee.
The 33-year-old Melchiot, who also played for Chelsea, Birmingham and Ajax, reportedly turned down an offer to stay on with Wigan for less money.
Umm Salal club manager Ali Ameen said Tuesday that the former Netherlands defender would arrive in Qatar on July 1 before linking up with the squad for a three-week training session in Amsterdam.
"He will be with us for two years and we hope he can help us improve our performances because he is a very seasoned player," Ameen said.
"He has played for famous clubs like Chelsea and Birmingham City. We are hoping his experience in the English Premier League can lift Umm Salal."
The signing comes several days after Dubai-based Al Ahli announced the signing of Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro, who was out of contract at Juventus.
The Gulf has become a favourite place for older players to finish their careers, as they often are provided with monthly trips home, a villa and large salaries.
Among those who have moved to the Gulf over the past decade are former Argentina striker Gabriel Batistuta and ex-Brazil forward Romario.
Umm Salal finished seventh in the 12-team Qatar Stars league last season after climbing to third in the previous two years.

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