SCHALKE SIGN AGALI

The Africana striker had a contract with Rostock until 2003 but it is believed that a clause in his contract meant that he could leave if he received offers of 7.5 million marks or more.

The 22-year-old has now signed with Schalke until June 2003, and the deal is said to be worth around 8 million marks.

"I have the possibility of playing with Schalke in the next few years and also furthering my international career," said Agali.

"In particular I am inspired by the new area, AufSchalke, where there will be 60,000 fans making a great atmosphere."

Hertha Berlin and Bayer Leverkusen where also very interested in Agali and Schalke coach Huub Stevens is delighted to get his man.

"Victor is terribly fast and a strong player despite his size," said Stevens. "With him in the squad, we will have more attacking options."

Agali might not have an easy time getting into the starting eleven however, as second place Schalke have Danish striker Ebbe Sand and Belgian Emile Mpenza both scoring goals for the side.