From BZ/dpa
The talks dragged on for a very long time. But now Union is making the next sensational transfer perfect.
First Gosens, then Volland and now a European champion. Leonardo Bonucci strengthens Bundesliga club Union Berlin in central defence.
Union Berlin has after Robin Gosens and Kevin Volland signed the third big name in a short time. The long-time Italy international Leonardo Bonucci moves from Serie A club Juventus Turin to Köpenick, as the Champions League participant announced on Friday.
Union did not provide any information on the transfer modalities, according to media reports, the 36-year-old Italian signed a contract for one year with an option for another season.
“With Leonardo we sign a player with a lot of experience. He has proven his qualities over many years both nationally and internationally. We are convinced that with his mentality and flexibility he will expand our options in defense and raise the level again,” said Union managing director Oliver Ruhnert in the message.
Bonucci has played 121 international matches for Italy and scored eight goals Photo: dpa/picture-alliance
At Juve, veteran Bonucci no longer played a role in coach Massimiliano Allegri’s plans and was recently excluded from the squad.
The 2021 European champion still had a valid contract with the Italians until next summer. He won nine league titles with Juventus and lifted the cup four times. In 2017 he joined AC Milan for €42m but returned to Turin just a year later.
“It is something special for me to go abroad for the first time in my career. At Union I have the opportunity to continue playing at the highest level and to support the team with my experience in three demanding competitions. I’m really looking forward to this new station in my career,” said Bonucci.