Swiss international Fernandes signs for Rennes from Freiburg

RENNES - Experienced Swiss international midfielder Gelson Fernandes became Ligue 1 side Rennes' ninth signing of the close season on Monday as he joined them from Bundesliga outfit Freiburg.

The 27-year-old Cape Verde-born player -- a member of the Swiss squad at the World Cup -- signed a four-year contract with last season's beaten French Cup finalists.

Fernandes, who also played for Switzerland at the 2010 World Cup finals, will be playing for his ninth club, his longest stay at a team being two years with English side Manchester City from 2007-09.

Rennes, boosted by money from new club president Rene Ruello, have been busy in the transfer market with coach and sporting director Philippe Montanier bringing in a whole raft of new players.

His new recruits include including highly-rated Franco-Bosnian 20-year-old midfielder Sanjin Prcic from relegated Sochaux.