Van der Vaart announces move to Real Madrid

News reports said Madrid will pay £13 million (US$20.3 million) for Van der Vaart, who joins his compatriots Ruud van Nistelrooy, Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Royston Drenthe.

"Rafael developed into a top European player at HSV," Hamburg sports director Dietmar Beiersdorfer said. "We wish him all the best for the future."

Earlier Monday, Van der Vaart pre-empted Hamburg's announcement by announcing his move, describing it as "a dream comes true".

"Last night everything came together, and I am now moving to Real Madrid," Van der Vaart said on his personal Web site. "As everybody might know I have always wanted to move to Spain, because I have a strong bond with that country. Now I'm going to play for Real Madrid. It's a dream comes true!"

The 25-year-old international midfielder, whose mother is Spanish, said he would be presented by Madrid on Tuesday, describing it as "the start of a new chapter" in his life.

The German club is believed to have rejected previous lower offers from Madrid for Van der Vaart, who scored 29 goals in 74 German league games, with its coach Martin Jol expressing hope that the player would not be allowed to leave.

However, as a prelude to a move, Van der Vaart was left out of Hamburg's lineup for the preseason Emirates Cup matches against Madrid and Juventus in London this weekend.

Van der Vaart is Madrid's second signing since it won the Spanish title for a record 31st time last season, following Racing Santander's Argentine defender Ezequiel Garay. In addition, midfielder Ruben de la Red, who helped Spain win the European Championship in June, and defensive midfielder Javi Garcia have rejoined after a season on loan with Getafe and Osasuna respectively.

Madrid has also been repeatedly linked with a record-breaking signing of Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United, with speculation that forward Robinho will be sold to Chelsea.

Van der Vaart's arrival will help Madrid cover for the loss of Sneijder, who sustained a knee injury in Sunday's friendly with Arsenal and will be absent for three months.

Madrid kicks off the season on Aug. 17 with the Spanish Supercup first leg against Copa del Rey champion Valencia. It begins its league title defense with a trip to Deportivo La Coruna on Aug. 30 or 31.