Reading have completed the signing of keeper Rafael, with the Brazilian signing a three-year contract at the Madejski Stadium after leaving Sampdoria.

Bringing in the 29-year-old will be considered a real coup for the Royals as he has top-flight experience in Brazil and Italy, whilst he also won three caps for his country in 2012.

Having started his career with local club Santos, Rafael secured a move to Napoli in 2013, although he was predominantly second-choice during his five years there before moving to Sampdoria 12 months ago.

And, he is on the move again, with Reading confirming his arrival on their official site this evening and boss Jose Gomes outlined why he was so pleased to get this deal over the line.

"In Rafael, we have a goalkeeper who can bring valuable experience of football played at the very highest level. He will be an excellent addition to our core team of goalkeepers and I look forward to welcoming him into my squad."

Young Everton loanee Joao Virginia was in goal as the Berkshire outfit lost to Sheffield Wednesday on the opening day, with the new signing likely to feature against Hull this weekend.

The Verdict

This is a very impressive signing for Reading as Rafael is a keeper with very good pedigree and he is strengthening a position they needed to address.

Even though he hasn't always played for Napoli and Sampdoria, the fact he is at those clubs prove the talent he has.

So, he seems like a very smart bit of business from Gomes and the recruitment team at Reading and he is sure to be a key player for the side moving forward.

The fans will be hoping that there's more to come before Thursday's deadline but this is certainly a good start.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.