Bundesliga
Bayern Munich sign France international Lucas Hernandez
The reigning Bundesliga champions are continuing preparation for the 2018/19 season with another addition to their defence. Bayern Munich have confirmed the signing of France international Lucas Hernandez from Atletico Madrid on a five-year deal.
Hernandez, 23, was part of France’s World Cup winning squad in Russia in the summer of 2018. The versatile defender played all but forty minutes of the campaign from left-back in a squad that included now club team-mates Corentin Tolisso, and fellow new signing, Benjamin Pavard.
"I'm very happy that in Lucas Hernandez we've been able to sign one of the best defensive players in the world," said Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic. "Lucas can be used both in central defense and on the left. He will also continue our tradition of outstanding French players and strengthen our team."
Hernandez becomes Bayern’s second signing before next season, and the second star of France’s World Cup-winning defence to join the club, after Pavard, who will join from VfB Stuttgart.
"Today's a very important day in my career," said Hernandez. "Bayern Munich is one of the best clubs in Europe and the world. I'm proud to be able to fight for every title with Bayern in the future. I'd like to thank Atletico for a wonderful 12 years. Atletico will always be a part of me. Now I'm happy that I'm taking the next step at Bayern."
Hernandez - who was born in Marseille while his father played for the French giants but moved to Spain when he was four - becomes the fourth French player in the Bayern squad, alongside Pavard, Kingsley Coman and Tolisso.