Hitzlsperger heading for Stuttgart
Monday, April 4, 2005
Article summary
Germany midfield player Thomas Hitzlsperger has agreed to join Bundesliga side VfB Stuttgart from Aston Villa FC.
Article body
Deal agreed
Hitzlsperger, who turns 23 tomorrow, has secured a pre-contract agreement with the German high-fliers until summer 2007, with an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months. Hitzlsperger, who joined Villa in November 2000 from FC Bayern München, will sign the contract next week.
Sammer delighted
"I am happy that the move is close to being finalised. I like what Stuttgart have to offer," said the German international, who is out of contract at Villa Park at the end of the season. Stuttgart coach Matthias Sammer said: "Signing Thomas is an important part of our plans for next season. He is very talented and has already made a name for himself. We are delighted he has decided to join us."
European ambition
Stuttgart are closing in on a UEFA Champions League place for next season. They are third in the Bundesliga, four points above their nearest rivals Werder Bremen and five adrift of the top two Bayern and FC Schalke 04. Hitzlsperger is hoping the return home will boost his international chances before next summer's FIFA World Cup in Germany.