Canada midfielder Saliba joins Villarreal

Canadian midfielder Nathan Saliba has joined La Liga outfit Villarreal from Anderlecht.

The 22-year-old has agreed a five-year contract until June 2031, seeing him play alongside fellow countrymen Tajon Buchanan and Tani Oluwaseyi.

Saliba had his first training session on Wednesday, and he is expected to make his debut in Friday's visit to face Deportivo Alaves.

Saliba began his career with CF Montreal, making 78 appearances before his move to Anderlecht. He played 50 matches and scored five goals in Brussels.

Saliba has made 18 appearances for Canada and was part of its squad as the country co-hosted this year's FIFA World Cup with the United States and Mexico, scoring a goal in the 6-0 win over Qatar.

After finishing third in La Liga last season, Villarreal kicked off the new season with 2-2 draws away to Racing Santander and Atletico Madrid.