Colombian pop star Shakira and Barcelona defender Gerard Pique have announced the birth of their son Milan.

“We are pleased to announce the birth of Milan Pique Mebarak, son of Shakira Mebarak and Gerard Pique, on January 22 at 9.36pm (8.36 GMT), in Barcelona, Spain,” it was announced on the singer’s website.

“Just like his father, baby Milan became a member of FC Barcelona at birth.”

Shakira’s website also revealed the couple’s first child weighed approximately 6lb 6oz, and that both mother and child are in “excellent health”.

The Grammy-winning singer said in a 2009 interview that she was ready to start a family.

She said: “I really would like to have a big belly.”

The couple have set up a baby shower site in honour of their new addition where people can support Unicef “in giving underprivileged babies around the globe a healthy start in life”.

Readers can pay for immunisations, rehydration salts and food for babies in developing countries.

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