Wolfsburg have finally announced the capture of Belgium ace Kevin De Bruyne. He joins from English club Chelsea FC in a fee reported to be around €22mil. The Wolves had tracked the player since he impressed at Werder Bremen last season and seemed intent on getting their man in the winter window. He signs a deal until 2019 and greatly strengthens an inform Wolfsburg side. After the 17 games in the Hinrunde, Wolfsburg find themselves in fifth place and part of the UEFA Champions League place chasing pack. They are just two points off fourth placed Borussia Dortmund and with the acquisition of De Bruyne look determined to gain a spot in Europe’s top competition.
"Signing Kevin means we are bringing more quality into the team. He is a player with outstanding qualities and I am happy that he decided in favour of Wolfsburg. I had a very good feeling after our first talk with him. He is convinced of our ambition,” said coach Dieter Hecking.
De Bruyne was initially heavily linked with a move to Borussia Dortmund in the summer after his impressive loan stint at Werder Bremen last season. After being promised by Mourinho that he’d get a chance, De Bruyne opted to stay and try and win a place in the Chelsea team. However, he found it difficult to work his way into a very strong and competitive Chelsea midfield and as a result only made five starts and four sub appearances in all competitions. With the 2014 World Cup just around the corner, the Belgium international needed to move to get more game time.
De Bruyne commented on his move by saying, "It was clear from the start that Wolfsburg would be the first team I talk to if Chelsea gave me permission. That's why I'm very happy that this transfer has been completed. Klaus Allofs and Dieter Hecking are building a very good team at VfL with a lot of potential. I want to play my part, make sure we continue to be successful, and return to the international stage."