Arda Turan hails "very important" Barcelona move

Arda Turan has suggested that joining Barcelona represents a "very important" moment in his career.

The attacking midfielder swapped Atletico Madrid for the Catalans this week for a reported £24m.

Nevertheless, Turan is forced to wait six months before making his debut due to the Blaugrana's transfer embargo, with January 2016 his earliest possible bow.

"It's very important for my career and for my country to sign for Barcelona," the Turkey international told the club's official TV channel.

"It's a great day. I'm very excited and I'm ready to get going."

It was previously reported that Barcelona may elect to loan the 28-year-old back to Atletico until he is eligible for his debut, but coach Luis Enrique is not keen on the idea.