Monaco have confirmed the signing of former Barcelona defender Eric Abidal on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old Frenchman, who started his professional career with the club, has penned a one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.

He recently left Barca following a six-year stay with the Spanish champions.

Abidal underwent a liver transplant last year after being diagnosed with a tumor in March 2011.

The operation kept him out of action for nearly a year, but he made his return towards the end of last season.