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First Team

Viña makes Cherries move

AFC Bournemouth have completed the signing of left-back Matías Viña on an initial six-month loan from Serie A outfit Roma.

Viña becomes the Cherries’ fourth new arrival of the January transfer window, following Dango Ouattara, Darren Randolph and Antoine Semenyo.

The Uruguayan international represented his country at the World Cup in Qatar, featuring in group games against South Korea and Portugal.

Viña, who can also operate as a central defender, joined Roma following successful spells in Uruguay and Brazil.

He starred as Nacional won their 47th top-flight title in 2019 and was named Uruguayan Primera Division player of the year having netted five times in 34 games.

Viña moved to Palmeiras in January 2020 and helped them win the treble in his first season before playing his part as they retained the Copa Libertadores in 2021.

The 25-year-old became one of Jose Mourinho’s first signings ahead of the 2021-22 season and added the UEFA Europa Conference League to his impressive CV following victory over Feyenoord in the inaugural final in Tirana.

Capped 28 times by his country, Viña’s loan agreement includes an option to make the move permanent in the summer.

AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake told the club website: “We are delighted to secure the services of Matías for at least the second half of the season.

“Even though he only turned 25 in November, he arrives with a great deal of experience, including last season’s European success with Roma.

“Our fourth recruit of the transfer window, Matías will provide strong competition for places in our youthful squad and we welcome him to AFC Bournemouth.”

Viña faced his new Cherries teammate Jefferson Lerma during World Cup qualification and helped Uruguay to fourth place at the 2017 Under-20 World Cup, where winners England were captained by Lewis Cook and Dominic Solanke finished as top goalscorer.