Makaay makes Bayern move

Four-year contract
The transfer, which has been rumoured for weeks, was finally confirmed on television by Bayern press officer Markus Hörwick on Monday evening. Makaay will sign a four-year contract today with the German champions paying between €16m and €18m for the Dutch international's services. The 28-year-old could even make his league debut on Saturday when Bayern visit Hannover 96.

Makaay goodbye
"I would like to thank Deportivo for four magnificent years," Makaay said. "I have won trophies, been top scorer in the Spanish league and claimed the [2002/03 ESM] Golden Shoe award and you can't ask much more than that."

'A great professional'
Deportivo president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro said there was little he could do to stop the Dutch striker from leaving. "Obviously I am hurt by the departure of a player of Makaay's quality," he said. "He had two years left on his contract and in football that is very little time. He is a great professional who has never created problems and I would like to wish him success as long as he is not playing against Deportivo."

Vitesse prodigy

Chance for others
Makaay's departure would pave the way for Walter Pandiani to stake his claim after returning from a one-season loan at RCD Mallorca. Pandiani, who will battle for a place with Diego Tristán and Albert Luque, scored 13 goals last season and helped Mallorca win the Spanish Cup.

Champions League challenge
Bayern and Deportivo begin their 2003/04 UEFA Champions League campaign in the group stage in September.