FC Ingolstadt 04 have confirmed the signing of DR Congo international, Marcel Tisserand, from Ligue 1 side AS Monaco. The central defender has signed a four year contract at the Audi Sportpark and although both clubs have revealed an undisclosed fee, it is thought to be in the region of £2.5 million.
Tisserand becomes the ninth summer signing at the Bavarian club, as Markus Kauczinski looks to strengthen his side as die Schanzer once again look to beat the drop in their second ever Bundesliga season. The 23-year-old is one of a number of defensive additions Kauczinski has sought to make including Hauke Wahl and Florent Hadergjonaj, after key departures over the summer in Ingolstadt.
Highly coveted
A Parisian native, Tisserand came through the highly rated Clairefontaine youth programme before making the move to Monaco. Continuing his development with the Monegasque's he has been loaned out for the past three seasons, spending two of those with Toulouse as well as a sixth month spell with RC Lens.
During that time, Tisserand has made 61 appearances in Ligue 1 and quickly established himself as an integral part of le Téfécé's defence as the French side narrowly avoided relegation last season. Also able to operate as a right back, Tisserand scored and assisted on one occasions last season. He was rewarded for his impressive performances, as he was handed his international debut for his adopted DR Congo against Romania in May.
On returning to the Stade-Louis II this summer, the 23 year old has been linked with a number of clubs including English giaints Arsenal, however in the end it was die Schanzer who secured his signature.
Looking forward to life in the Bundesliga
Tisserand spoke to the official club website, and was evidently impressed with the way Ingolstadt, and especially Sporting Director Thomas Linke, went about the transfer. "It impressed me that Thomas Linke, personally, came to Monaco to speak with me," Tisserand said, adding: "This was a crucial factor in my decision."
"FC Ingolstadt is a young and modern club that relies on young hungry players," the 23-year-old expressed, "I want to learn everyday and gain experience. Therefore die Schanzer are the perfect fit for me." The defender finished with "I look forward to the Bundesliga and a great season with FCI!"
The aforementioned Linke, also had his say on the transfer and believed Tisserand could prove a valuable addition to die Schanzer, "We are convinced that he can immediately help us and in the future he will provide us with a lot of pleasure," the 46 year old said.
The former Schalke and Bayern Munich professional was also impressed by the DR Congo internationals versatility detailing, "He is quick, strong in the tackle and has a good passing game. He played all across defence during his time at Lens and Toulouse, and has taken a lot of responsiblity for someone of his age."