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Six-time Bundesliga winners Hamburger SV have announced the loan acquisition of Nigerian winger Philip Otele from FC Basel, Soccernet.ng reports.
The decision came as a surprise, given that the one-time Champions League winners are in a relegation battle. However, their Sporting Director, Claus Costa, has revealed the rationale behind bringing the Nigerian on board.
The 26-year-old was initially linked with a move to Wolverhampton Wanderers, while Bournemouth and Lazio were monitoring him in the shadows.
Otele scored nine goals and provided four assists for FC Basel before jetting out to Germany to help Hamburg in their fight for safety.
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Why Hamburger SV signed Philip Otele from FC Basel
Hamburg's Sporting Director Claus Costa, alongside their board member Eric Huwer, revealed they brought the former CFR Cluj winger in to help boost their squad depth.
“Bringing in Philip at the end of the transfer window gives us another player who adds variety and depth to our attack,” Eric Huwer said in quotes revealed by Hamburg's official website.
“Claus and his team have rounded off a very busy transfer period, during which we were able to fill four key positions and, at the same time, shape the squad exactly as we wanted.”
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“Philip is a winger in the purest sense. He brings flair and a real goal threat, plays with courage on the ball and often looks to take defenders on and drive directly towards goal with his dribbling,” Sporting director Claus Costa outlined.
“He’s also fully fit and has been playing regular football recently. Philip has taken a unique path in his career and had to work hard for every step.
“He’s now really looking forward to his next challenge in the Bundesliga, and we’re delighted that he’s chosen HSV.”
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“This is a really proud moment for me. I didn’t need much convincing – HSV and the Volksparkstadion are massive. The support from the fans is incredible. I can’t wait to get started,” Otele said after joining one of the biggest clubs in Germany.
Hamburg are currently 13th on the Bundesliga table, just a point above the relegation spots.
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