German midfielder Mario Gotze will join Bayern Munich in the off-season, Borussia Dortmund have confirmed.
The 20-year-old has gained many admirers during his time with Dortmund, but will now link up with incoming Bayern manager Pep Guardiola after the Bavarian giants parted with 37 million euros to secure his services.
A statement on Dortmund’s Facebook page read: “Mario Gotze’s agent Volker Struth told us a few days ago that the player wishes to make use of his release clause and on July 1, 2013 move to Bayern Munich.”
Dortmund chief executive Hans-Joachim Watzke added: “We are obviously disappointed beyond measure, but emphasise that both Mario and his advisers have behaved within the terms of the contract.
The transfer, also confirmed by Bayern, will see Gotze link-up with a number of international team-mates including Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller and Philip Lahm.
“Bayern Munich confirm that the club have reached an agreement with Mario Gotze ahead of a transfer on July 1, 2013. Bayern are willing to match the buy-out clause agreed between Borussia Dortmund and Mario Gotze,” Bayern’s statement read.
“Bayern intended to inform Dortmund about the transfer after their Champions League match against Real Madrid.”
Gotze has been instrumental in Dortmund’s recent success, scoring 31 goals in 115 appearances for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
He has helped the club to consecutive Bundesliga titles and has played a key role in their charge to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals this season.
However, Dortmund have had to play second fiddle to Bayern in the Bundesliga in the 2012-13 season.
Jupp Heynckes’ side have already clinched the league crown and sit a full 20 points ahead of Dortmund with four games still to play.
Dortmund host Bayern in the Bundesliga on May 4 and Gotze’s last game for his current employers may come in a Champions League final with Bayern should both teams emerge victorious from their respective semi-finals.
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