Liverpool confirm capture of Cameroon star Joel Matip from Schalke 04
Merseysiders win their struggle to sign giant central defender from Bundesliga club on a free transfer at the end of the season
Liverpool have won their struggle to sign giant Cameroon central defender Joel Matip from Schalke 04 on a free transfer at the end of the season, the Bundesliga outfit confirmed on Monday.
It became clear very quickly that certain decisive factors meant we would not be able to influence his decision
The 24-year-old has made 239 appearances for Schalke since his debut at 18 in November 2009, but sporting director Horst Heldt admitted the club had lost their battle to persuade Matip to stay in Gelsenkirchen.
“We have held extensive discussions with both the player and his agent since May. It became clear very quickly that certain decisive factors meant we would not be able to influence his decision,” Horst told the club website.
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“Liverpool Football Club can confirm they have reached an agreement to sign Cameroon defender Joel Matip,” a statement on the club’s website said.
The player himself said it was a logical career move.
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“I never considered a move to another Bundesliga club. Even though the decision wasn’t easy, I am certain that this is the right moment for me to take the next step in my career,” Matip explained.