Gabriel Zakuani Position Defender DOB 31/05/1986 P.O.B. Zaire Height 6'1" Club Leyton Orient

Fulham have announced that they have signed Gabriel Zakuani from Leyton Orient, on a four year deal subject to a medical.

Zakuani has been linked with a number of Premiership clubs since the end of last season and Fulham manager Chris Coleman will be happy to have made his second signing this summer. Coleman is particularly keen to strengthen his defence with only three Premiership sides recording a worse goals against figure last season.

The 20-year old defender made his debut for Orient in March 2003 aged just 16, and quickly established himself as a regular in the side, playing an integral role at the heart of the O's defence over the last two seasons.

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zakuani made his debut for his Country in August 2005. A powerful and intelligent Centre Half, he brings an assurance to the centre of defence that belies his years, and his composure and aerial assertiveness has been admired by Chris Coleman and other Premiership managers for some time.

Manager Chris Coleman commented:
'I'm very happy that Gabriel has joined us this season; he is a really bright prospect for the future and one that I have been keeping my eye on over the last couple of seasons. He has great maturity for his age and I believe that over time he will establish himself as a formidable force at the back. We managed to beat off considerable competition in the race for Gabriel's signature, so I'm delighted that he has chosen to commit his future to Fulham for the long term.'

Gabriel Zakuani said:
'Joining Fulham is a great move for me and I'm looking forward to joining the squad in Devon for the first pre-season training camp. Everyone at the Club has been really welcoming and Chris Coleman has talked to me about the Club's plans for the future, which is all positive so I'm happy to be a part of that. I had a great time with Orient and would like to thank all the fans for making my time there so special, and now I just want to prove myself to the Fulham fans in the same way.'