Hoffenheim boss Dietmar Hopp has forked out 7 million euros to seal the transfer of Croatian national Josip Simunic, captain of Herta Berlin, to his village club, it was revealed on Tuesday.
Simunic's contract with Hoffenheim runs until 2012 and the 31-year-old defender will earn 3 million euros for each year.
"Joe will play a central role, giving our team further stability and passing on his many years of experience. I am certain that our young players will profit a lot from him, both on the pitch and off," said Hoffenheim head coach Jan Schindelmeiser.
The Canberra, Australia-born Croatian international is rich in Bundesliga experience. Simunic is well known for his leading abilities as well as for his defensive actions. The central defender has featured in 230 Bundesliga games for Hamburg SV and Hertha BSC, scoring three goals in the process.
"I have played in Berlin for ten years. This time has been intense, and I will remember it fondly," said Simunic at the signing of his contract.
"In Hoffenheim, I see a young, modern club with big ambitions and I am very glad to be able to pass on my experience to this young team with so much potential," he added.
Simunic will arrive at Hoffenheim on Monday.
Source: Xinhua
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