Cambridge United confirmed this morning that trialist John Hansen has completed his transfer from Danish first division side Esbjerg. He has signed a two and a half year deal and is expected to go straight into the squad for Saturday's home match against Blackpool.

The 25-year-old is described by one Danish U's fan as a strong, fast midfielder with a powerful shot. He scored five goals in 26 appearances last season, including a hat-trick against Århus Fremad, and this season has made 7 appearances as substitute.

Hansen, who will inherit Martin Butler's number 9 shirt, can boast three European Cup appearances, and before joining Esbjerg he played for Vissenbjerg and Odense. Fans of Esbjerg are disappointed by the low transfer fee of 60,000Dkr - approximately £5,000 - but Hansen's contract was due to expire in the summer when he would have been a free agent.

Roy McFarland commented, "I have been looking for some time for a player to fill the left-sided attacking midfield role and was very impressed with John's performance for the reserves last week."

In the Cambridge Evening News he added, "The one major thing he gives us is better all-round balance because he's a left-sided player who can play either wide or tuck in. The other good thing he has is footballing quality. He's got good touch, can head it and kick it, and all round I think he would add to the overall balance of the squad."

Hansen himself said, "Cambridge is a nice club to be involved with. It is a young team with some very good players."

The player was due to be introduced to the media this afternoon and I hope to bring further details later tonight.