Through official channels, Hapoel Tel Aviv have announced that they have completed the signing of Super Eagles defender Benjamin Francis on a season - long loan deal from Heartland.

The Israeli club have retained the option of buying him outright at the end of this season.

The left back impressed the Reds top brass during trials, especially in Sunday’s Toto Cup clash against league champions Maccabi Tel Aviv, where he played for 90 minutes.

In his first words after his unveiling, the wing - back said : “I’m happy to join the club, got to know everyone and the players who want to succeed and crew is excellent. ”

“I saw the derby, the fans and they gave us all strength and I am proud to join the Reds.”

The 21 - year - old was linked with a switch to Ironi Kiryat Shmona in the winter transfer market, but the deal collapsed after they failed to reach an agreement with Heartland.

Benjamin Francis made Nigeria’s squad for the 2013 Fifa Confederations Cup, but failed to taste action during the tournament.

Nigeria internationals Vincent Enyeama and Nosa Igiebor have represented Hapoel Tel Aviv in the past.

Photo Credit : hapoelta-fc.co.il