Adel Taarabt joins Benfica after Queens Park Rangers departure

Adel Taarabt has signed for Benfica after being released by Queens Park Rangers.

The 26-year-old made 164 appearances for the West London club since joining in 2009, but played just seven times last season.

He was named the Championship Player of the Year in 2011 after captaining QPR to the Championship title, and spent time on loan at AC Milan and Fulham in the 2013-14 season.

Taarabt has signed a five-year contract with the Turkish champions.