Oxford United are delighted to announce the signing of former Netherlands Under-21 international Hidde ter Avest.
The right-back joins having spent the last three-and-a-half seasons with Eredivisie side FC Utrecht where he played more than 100 games.
Ter Avest started his career with FC Twente, playing exactly 100 times, before moving to Serie A with Udinese where he spent two-and-a-half years playing in one of Europe’s top leagues.
The 27-year-old now joins Oxford United for his first foray into English football and will add more top-level experience to the side.
Speaking after signing for the club, he said: “I’m really excited to be here, and I can’t wait to get started.
“I spoke to the gaffer and to Ed and that conversation really attracted me to this place.
“They explained the way they play and it’s something that suits me really well and I’m looking forward to getting started with the lads.
“I have experienced a lot and I’m only 27 right now, so I feel like I can bring something to the group and help going forward.”
Des Buckingham, Head Coach, said: “Hidde is a very strong personality and another wonderful addition to our group.
“He possesses so much in what we want from our full-backs. He is strong, quick, and has great technical ability and we are confident he will be an important player for us going forward.
“He has some excellent experience playing at high levels overseas and will bring different but vitally important qualities to complement our current group.”
Ed Waldron, Head of Football Operations, said: “The signing of Hidde is a testament to the work that is done in our recruitment department.
“The team have worked extremely hard on this deal and spent a lot of time last season watching Hidde in action for Utrecht both online and in person.
“The reports were all extremely positive and we are delighted to add someone of his experience and his quality into this team.”