Girondins Bordeaux have announced this afternoon they have completed the signing of midfielder Yoann Gourcuff on a four-year deal from AC Milan.

The Frenchman has been on loan with the Ligue 1 side this season and after some match-winning displays they have decided to exercise the option to sign him.

Bordeaux will have the chance to win the French title for the sixth time in their history this weekend and hence will call a press conference confirming the deal after the championship is decided.

There have been some words today though from the president of Bordeaux, Jean-Louis Triaud, who expressed his delight at the purchase.

"Tonight, I am the happiest president. I am thankful for the way the discussions that led to this agreement have been carried out. We are happy to be able to count on a player of such talent and with such human qualities. I am thinking in particular about the team, the club, and also our fans," he told the official Bordeaux website.

Likewise, Gourcuff himself, who won the Ligue 1 player of the year award this season, revealed his happiness at a permanent return to France.

"I am happy to continue my sporting adventure with Girondins. My decision to sign with them has developed throughout the season," he said.

"We have succeeded in not only creating a sporting success but also keeping good relations within the group.

"I learned a lot from my time with AC Milan and I want to thank the players and the club for letting me learn at the highest level."

"The confidence that Laurent Blanc and my team-mates put in me since the start of the season, the club's ambition for the following season, and the support of the fans, have made me make this decision, whilst the economic aspect was not a priority in it."

AC Milan have also briefly commented about the move in an official statement, wishing him good luck for the rest of his career.

James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com