Denmark defender Simon Kjaer has signed for Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg from Palermo after a summer transfer season that has seen the starlet linked with many of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur were amongst the Premier League sides credited with holding an interest in securing the player’s signature.
The 21-year-old leaves Palermo, who finished fifth in Serie A last season, after two years at the club and signs for Steve McClaren’s new side in a transfer reported to be worth in excess of £10 million.
After days of speculation that a deal was near to a conclusion, both sides confirmed that an agreement had been reached on Thursday, with the centre-back signing a four-year contract with the 2009 German champions.
Speaking about his move, Kjaer told Wolfsburg’s club website: "The change for me is a chance to play at a top club.
“I think this is right for me. We have a strong team that can play in the Bundesliga and I would like to secure a regular place in the side."
Wolfsburg chairman Dieter Hoeness was understandably happy with his capture after a lengthy period of negotiations.
"Simon is a good, aggressive defensive player,” he stated.“Despite his young age, he already has a strong personality on the pitch.
“He already has the qualities of a leader."
Kjaer has previously commented on his wish to play closer to his home country, which this move gives him the opportunity to do.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/3275/bundesliga/2010/07/08/2015516/official-premier-league-target-simon-kjaer-joins-wolfsburg