Mark Hughes has explained his reasons for signing veteran defender Sylvinho.

Manchester City have landed the 35-year-old former Arsenal defender on a season-long loan deal, after his contract with Spanish giants Barcelona ended last term.

"Sylvinho has a wealth of experience at the very top level, having represented Brazil and played for some of the very top clubs in Europe," Hughes told the club's official website.

"When the chance presented itself I saw it as representing excellent business for us. Sylvinho won the European Cup last season at Barcelona and he will strengthen our defensive options."