Bundesliga
Kruse to return to Wolfsburg
Wolfsburg have strengthen their attacking options by signing Max Kruse from Union Berlin, bringing the striker back to the Volkswagen Arena following a season at the club in 2015/16.
The 33-year-old has agreed a deal valid until 30 June 2023, pending a medical check on Monday.
“I made the decision to return to Wolfsburg because our story isn't over yet,” Kruse said in a statement on the club's website. “I know what’s in store for me and I accept the challenge. I’m looking forward to joining the team and will give everything to help them.”
The left-footed forward recorded six goals and eight assists in 32 Bundesliga outings for the Wolves in 2015/16 following his arrival from Borussia Mönchengladbach, before joining Werder Bremen in 2016, where he worked with current Wolfsburg head coach Florian Kohfeldt for two years.
Following a spell in Turkey with Fenerbahce in 2019/20, Kruse returned to the Bundesliga with Union Berlin in summer 2020, scoring 16 goals in 38 league outings for Urs Fischer's side and helping them qualify for the inaugural UEFA Europa Conference League this season.
This term he has five goals and four assists for Union, contributing in no small part to them climbing to fourth in the standings.
Watch: Kruse's top 5 Bundesliga goals
“We’re pleased to be able to face the upcoming challenges with Max,” said Wolfsburg sporting director Marcel Schäfer, who played alongside Kruse in Wolfsburg's 2015/16 side, with a nod towards the Wolves' current 11-game winless run that has seen them drop to 15th in the table.
“He’s a player who can be used flexibly in attack and has proven his footballing qualities at every club he’s played for so far. We’re therefore convinced he’ll be able to help us straight away.”