Fulham snap up defender Halliche

Halliche becomes new Fulham manager Mark Hughes' second signing

Fulham have confirmed the signing of Algerian defender Rafik Halliche from Benfica for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old, who played every minute of Algeria's three games at the World Cup, signed a three-year deal.

"I'm so happy that my transfer to Fulham has been finalised," he told the club website.

"To be given an opportunity to compete against some fantastic teams for a team like Fulham is something that I've always dreamed of doing."

Halliche has made 20 appearances for Algeria since his debut against Senegal in May 2008.

606: DEBATE Good news for us as we are short of cover for the defence with Senderos rupturing his Achilles frogman27

His arrival will help plug the gap left in defence by the absence of Swiss international Philippe Senderos.

The former Arsenal player was ruled out for six months after rupturing his Achilles before the season began.

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