Bayern seal Ballack deal

Bayer 04 Leverkusen have confirmed that German international Michael Ballack will join FC Bayern München next summer.

'Sporting reasons'
Ballack claimed that he had chosen to move to the European and German champions "for primarily sporting reasons". The 25-year-old, who will move in a deal worth €14.5 million, has signed a four-year contract that will earn him around €4m per year. "We are pleased that he has decided to join us," Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness said. "That crowns a really good new year for us. We believe it was the correct decision for him."

'Not disappointed'
Leverkusen's general manager Reiner Calmund praised Ballack for his contribution to the current league leaders' campaign but was obviously disappointed to be losing such an influential player. "We regret Michael Ballack's decision, but are not disappointed, however, because he has honoured his contract with us 100 per cent."