Swansea City complete deal for Dutch keeper Michel Vorm

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Michel Vorm
Image caption,

Vorm has won five caps for Holland since making his debut in 2008

Swansea City have signed goalkeeper Michel Vorm for £1.5m from FC Utrecht on a three-year contract.

Vorm, who was in the Netherlands squad for Wednesday's postponed friendly against England, leaves the Dutch side with a year left on his contract.

Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers had been looking for a goalkeeper following the departure of Dorus de Vries.

"The manager wants to play the right way, and he and the club showed that they really wanted me," said Vorm, 27.

Vorm, played against Liverpool and Celtic in the Europa League last season, becomes Rodgers' sixth summer signing as the club prepare for their maiden Premier League campaign.

He will compete against another new recruit, Jose Moreira, for the goalkeeper's spot and said he had no hesitation in accepting the opportunity to play in England's top-flight.

"I've spoken with guys like Nigel de Jong, Robin van Persie, Rafael van der Vaart and Ruud van Nistelrooy and they all same the same - the Premier League is a beautiful place," said Vorm.

"The Premier League is the biggest league in the world and to be part of it is a massive opportunity.

"It is a huge challenge for the club because we are new to the league, but it is a fresh challenge too."

Former goalkeeper De Vries played a key role in Swansea's promotion last season, not only with his hands but also by being comfortable with the ball at his feet to complement the side's style of possession football.

Rodgers said Vorm has similar football skills and philosophy to compatriot De Vries, having spent his entire career in the Dutch game.

"He is the Dutch number two and I think it says it all that we can attract that calibre of player here," said Rodgers.

"He fits our style which is why it's taken so long for us to get the right type of goalkeeper.

"He has experience and there are many terrific Dutch goalkeepers so for him to be number two and have that experience is a great coup for us."

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