Borussia Dortmund have completed the signing of Swiss-Nigerian defender, Manuel Akanji, from Basel.
Akanji, 22, was born in Wiesendangen, Switzerland to a Nigerian dad and Swiss mum.
But instead of the Super Eagles, the combative defender opted for the European nation.
Welcome to the #Bundesliga, Manuel #Akanji! 🤝 The 22-year-old defender has signed for @BVB until 2022 💛🖤 https://t.co/AKPfhFA1Z1
— Bundesliga English (@Bundesliga_EN) January 15, 2018
“I felt very well in the talks with the Dortmund managers,” Akanji told Dortmund club website on Monday.
“It was a decision from the heart. And I’ve always liked the football played in Dortmund. I’m looking forward to my time here and will do my best.”
“We are delighted to have signed a player of such quality,” said BVB sporting director Michael Zorc. “His combination of strength and composure on the ball are sure to be an asset to the club.”
Akanji, who will wear the number 16, has featured in all 19 of Swiss champions Basel’s Super League games this season, scoring once.
He also appeared in all six of Basel’s UEFA Champions League group stage matches.
Akanji began his career at local side, FC Wiesendangen, in 2004 before moving to FC Winterthur three years later.
There he spent seven years, attracting the interest of Europe’s top sides but ultimately settled for Basel.
Akanji has played four times for the Swiss national team.
