PSV confirm signing of former Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund star Mario Gotze as Dutch side snap up 2014 World Cup hero on a free transfer
- Mario Gotze has signed a two-year deal with Dutch side PSV Eindhoven
- The World Cup winner, 28, was a free agent after leaving Borussia Dortmund
- He had interest from Hertha BSC, AC Milan, Lazio, AS Roma and Atletico Madrid
- But he turned down offers from both Serie A and the Bundesliga in favour of PSV
Former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich playmaker Mario Gotze has signed a two-year deal with Dutch side PSV Eindhoven.
The 28-year-old World Cup winner was a free agent after leaving Borussia Dortmund, and had previously been linked with moves to Hertha BSC, AC Milan, Lazio, AS Roma and Atletico Madrid.
However, confirmation of the deal with the Eredivisie has come shortly after Gotze was spotted completing a medical at the Philips Stadion.
German star Mario Gotze has signed a two-year deal with Eredivisie side PSV Eindhoven
According to Eindhovens Dagblad, Gotze turned down two offers from Italy and one offer from the Bundesliga in favour of PSV.
‘I had a lot of offers this summer but I am a man of feeling and make my own decisions,’ Gotze told PSV’s official website.
‘I feel I am ready for a very different challenge and I am confident that this should be a very comfortable transition for me.’
Gotze started his career with Borussia Dortmund, before a move to Bayern Munich in 2013.
Gotze has been without a club since his contract at Borussia Dortmund ended in July
After three years with the Bundesliga champions, he returned to his boyhood club Dortmund.
During that time, Gotze also scored the winning goal in the 2014 World Cup final for Germany.
But in recent years Gotze has found himself out of Dortmund head coach Lucien Favre’s plans – making just 21 appearances across all competitions for the club last season.
Having fallen out of favour in Germany, Gotze is excited for his ‘new adventure’.
He said: ‘I kept on training and got myself fit for the new adventure. I am looking forward to joining my new team-mates for full training and preparing myself for the upcoming fixtures.’
PSV’s Director of Football says Gotze was interested after talking to head coach Roger Schmidt
PSV’s Director of Football, John de Jong, shares Gotze’s excitement over the partnership between club and player, saying: ‘Mario became interested after our head coach Roger Schmidt had gotten in touch with him.
‘And in the end he proved to be the godsend we had hoped for. We are delighted he has signed a contract with PSV. We are very proud.
‘He can play every position in the attacking and midfield area. And he has gained international experience and brings the quality we need.’
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