Moroccan international midfielder Nabil Dirar is to join Istanbul giants Fenerbahce from French Ligue 1 champions Monaco, the Turkish side announced on Saturday.

Dirar, 31, arrived in Istanbul earlier in the week and passed a medical. The formal signing is expected in the next days with press reports saying a three-year deal with the option of a further year will be inked.

“Fenerbahce is a very big team based on very good players. There are many important names here. We will achieve great things with great players,” Fenerbahce quoted the player as saying.
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The versatile Dirar, who can also play in defence, is expected to bring much needed reinforcement to Fenerbahce after the side finished well behind champions Besiktas and surprise runners-up Basaksehir of Istanbul in the Turkish Super Lig last season.

Third place gave Fenerbahce entry to the third qualifying round of the Europa League but only a Super Lig championship would satisfy their fans.

Turkish press reports have said more major signings are expected from the side — traditionally the biggest spending in Turkey – under new manager Aykut Kocaman who has replaced outgoing Dutchman Dick Advocaat.