Hoffenheim sign youngster

Hoffenheim have confirmed that they have signed Franco Zuculini from Racing Club Avellaneda in Argentina for 4.7million euros.

Last season’s surprise Bundesliga leaders going into the winter break have moved quickly to sign the 18-year-old, beating off competition from Werder Bremen in the process.

The small German club have made it their philosophy to scour the globe for the world’s hottest young talent and giving them a platform to perform.

The midfielder has established himself in the Racing Club first team this term after only making his debut in April 2008.

The youngster’s rise did not stop there after Argentina manager Diego Maradona handed him his first international cap against Panama a month ago.

Zuculini is yet to sign his contract although personal terms have been agreed and the Argentine could soon be followed to Hoffenheim by his brother.

“Franco is a player full of talent and he has a lot of heart,” Hoffenheim manager Jan Schindelmeiser said.

“Franco should come to Germany in a few days for final medical tests. We have agreed his contractual conditions with his father though the deal has yet to be signed.”