Bundesliga: Belhanda makes Schalke move
Schalke have completed the signing of Younes Belhanda on a six-month loan deal from Ukrainian side Dynamo Kyiv.
The Morocco international will add extra competition for places in Andre Breitenreiter’s squad, as the Royal Blues bid to challenge for Champions League qualification during the second half of the season.
The 25-year-old, who rose to prominence whilst playing for French side Montpellier between 2009 and 2013, admits that he is honoured to have joined such a prestigious club and is looking forward to testing himself in the Bundesliga.
He said: “I’ve often dreamt about playing in the Bundesliga. I know Schalke already from when I was at Montpellier – I played against them in the Champions League. It’s a big club and Schalke has a great history, a big stadium and fantastic fans.”
Breitenreiter believes the attacking midfielder will prove a huge asset for his side, who will take on Werder Bremen at the Veltins-Arena when the Bundesliga resumes on January 24.
The coach said: “We want to increase the competition within the squad. Younes Belhanda can play in attacking midfield both centrally and out wide. He is quick, dynamic and also has a good goal and assist tally.”