Italian giants AS Roma have completed a surprise signing of Ghana midfielder Ahmed Apimah Barusso.

The 22-year-old, who has just recovered from an eight-month injury lay-off, signed a five-year deal with the Rome outfit on Thursday night.

Barusso suffered a tibia fracture in October while playing for Serie B side Rimini, who agreed a co-ownership deal for the midfielder.

Roma, who will play in the Uefa Champions League next season, paid US$3m to Rimini as 50 per cent of Barusso's registration.

The midfielder will earn US$400,000 per season.

"I am thoroughly thrilled to have completed this deal as it is a move forward for me," Barusso told BBC Sport.

"Playing in the Champions League is a dream of every player and I am happy with the chance I have to show my talent to the world.

"But I have to thank God and the people at Roma for having the trust in me as just little was seen of me before I got injured.

"I have to pay Roma and their fans back with my performance of the field to justify the amount they have spent on me."

Barusso's good form at the beginning of the season attracted interest from Milan rivals Inter Milan and AC Milan as well as Arsenal.

But interest in the midfielder waned following the injury he suffered in October.