Borussia Dortmund have officially completed the signing of breakout defender Leonardo Balerdi from Boca Juniors on a 'long-term' contract.
The 19-year-old has only made five league appearances for the beaten Copa Libertadores finalists, but is regarded as a top prospect.
Reports in Argentina have indicated Dortmund agreed to pay €15 million (£13m/$17m) for the defender, with a further €2m potentially due to Boca in add-ons.
Boca let the player know that the final decision would be down to him and his family as he now chooses to join the Bundesliga leaders.
BVB have drafted Balerdi in as cover for Manuel Akanji, who is currently sidelined with injury, as they chase a first German title since 2012.
Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc expressed his delight after announcing the signing of Balerdi on Monday, telling the club's official website: "The signing of Leonardo Balerdi is a transfer that was originally planned for the coming summer and is now being brought forward.
"Leonardo is an intelligent centre-back and strong in defence. He also has a good build-up and passing game. We are very glad that he has chosen us and are convinced that he will help us with his talent in the future."
Balerdi could be handed his first taste of Bundesliga football this coming Saturday, as Lucien Favre's side take in a trip to RB Leipzig.
samygold
172
dortmund scouts>dortmund buys for little money>dortmund improve player>player shines>dortmund sells for huge sum of money>player flops>buyer cries
moore8
121
I can see Dortmund is already collecting players to develop them and then later make huge profits from their sales,no one knew about this 19 year old but wait after only 3 years European giants shall come in in-need of his services
Gabrieljackson
116
most European clubs wanted him but none were as serious as BVB hope he can actually stay there for five years. before they decided to do business as usual