France international Lassana Diarra, who quit Marseille in February, has announced he has signed for newly-crowned Arabian Gulf League champions Al Jazira.

“I’m joining Al Jazira, champions of the UAE,” the 32-year-old told Journal du Dimanche newspaper.

“I’ll prepare in the United States before doing a pre-season with the squad from June.”

Diarra, capped 34 times by France, has also played for Chelsea, Arsenal, Portsmouth and Real Madrid, as well as Anzhi Makhachkala and Lokomotiv Moscow in the Russian Premier League.

He was release by Marseille after he had his commitment questioned by coach Rudi Garcia and the captaincy stripped from him.

Al Ahli and UAE marksman Ahmed Khalil has also agreed another high-profile free transfer to the Pride of Abu Dhabi. The 25-year-old – who is joint-top scorer in World Cup 2018 qualifying – will join on September 1.

Ten Cate’s title party

Organisers the Pro League Committee have revealed Jazira will be officially crowned AGL winners on Friday.

The Pride of Abu Dhabi have romped to a first title since 2010/11 and could get a record points tally with victory against Al Dhafra at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium. Henk ten Cate’s men are the only team playing then, with everyone else finishing on Saturday.

Emirates Club will need to beat Al Nasr and hope for the best to avoid relegation.