The Israeli goalkeeper's transfer was part of a multi-player deal that was pending for weeks.
By SHARON SOLOMON
Dudu Awat has conquered yet another peak in his already impressive European career. The Israeli international completed his move to Spanish giant Deportivo La Coru a, becoming one of Israel's premier ambassadors in the game.
The former Racing Santander goalkeeper's transfer was part of a multi-player deal that was pending for weeks. Deportivo forward Pedro Munitis, who was part of the player swap, finally agreed to a five-year deal with Santander on Monday. Awat is now under contract at Deportivo for the next four seasons, with the financial terms yet to be disclosed.
The Israeli goalkeeper is expected to replace veteran and fan-favorite Jose Molina, who is contemplating retirement, in the starting lineup.
The 28-year old Awat broke into the spotlight after winning an historic Israel Premier League championship with Eli Guttman's Hapoel Haifa in the 1998/99 season.
After claiming another domestic title with Maccabi Haifa in 2002 and appearing in the following season's Champions League, Awat was signed by Santander, where he joined former teammate Yossi Benayoun.
"I am really excited about the prospect of playing for Deportivo," Awat confessed after the official signing. "I can't wait to make my debut. We have a strong team and that was the reason I wanted to make this move."