Market for player transfers - FC Bayern completes transfer of defender Ito from Stuttgart.
Bayern Munich has made their first significant signing for the upcoming season by acquiring defender Hiroki Ito from VfB Stuttgart. Both football giants have made the announcement. Ito, a Japanese player aged 25, is making use of an exit clause from his contract with Stuttgart, which was set to expire in June 2027. He has now signed with Bayern until 2028 instead.
Previously, the Bild newspaper reported on the impending deal.
"We're looking for players who are hungry and bring new energy, and Hiroki has everything we desire: he embraces challenges, meets them, and keeps advancing," said Bayern's sports director, Max Eberl. The newly signed defender will be an immediate boon for the team.
Stuttgart to pocket a hefty sum
The exact transfer fee amount wasn't immediately disclosed. However, reports suggest Stuttgart could make close to €30 million. The deal is financially beneficial for the Swabians, as Ito initially joined on loan from Jubilo Iwata, then signed by Stuttgart in 2022. It's believed he cost Stuttgart significantly less than a million euros in transfer fees.
Ito was a standout performer in Stuttgart's defense last season, featuring in all but nine games due to a muscle injury and the Asian Cup. He regularly played as a center-back or left-back in their defense.
Bayern in search of defensive stability
Following a disappointing season in which they failed to win any titles, Bayern Munich is seeking more stability in their defense. Dayot Upamecano and Minjae Kim had experienced trouble in the 2023/24 season, and their performances resulted in them being replaced by Matthijs De Ligt and what was considered a backup player, Eric Dier, in the final league game.
Ito isn't the only defensive player Bayern hopes to sign for the new season. It's rumored that they've agreed on terms with the German national player Jonathan Tah, who has reportedly informed Bayer Leverkusen of his desire to leave.
Read also:
- The transfer market in German soccer saw a significant move with FC Bayern Munich securing Japanese defender Hiroki Ito from VfB Stuttgart.
- The Bild newspaper had previously reported about Bayern's plans to acquire Ito, who was looking to exercise an exit clause from his Stuttgart contract.
- VfB Stuttgart could reportedly pocket up to €30 million from the transfer, as Ito initially joined the club on loan before signing a permanent deal in 2022.
- Max Eberl, Bayern's sports director, praised Ito's hunger and determination, describing him as a player who meets challenges and keeps progressing.
- FC Bayern is seeking defensive stability following a disappointing season where Dayot Upamecano and Minjae Kim struggled, leading to their replacements in the final league game.
- Ito won't be the only defensive addition to Bayern's squad, as they are rumored to have agreed on terms with Jonathan Tah, who has expressed his desire to leave Bayer Leverkusen.
- Ito, aged 25, had been a crucial part of Stuttgart's defense last season, featuring in all but nine games despite a muscle injury and participation in the Asian Cup.
- The transfer of Ito to FC Bayern Munich highlights the intense competition in the Bundesliga's transfer market, with some of Germany's top clubs seeking reinforcements before the new season.
- The acquisition of Ito marks an important first step for FC Bayern Munich as they look to strengthen their squad in Bavaria, aiming for a successful campaign in Germany and Europe during the 2023/24 season.
