Borussia Dortmund have signed Wolfsburg defender Marin Pongracic on a one-year loan deal. The Croatian joins the team on the last day the summer transfer window closes.
The Black and Yellows has been looking at the market to add depth to their defence. Injuries in the team have forced Dortmund to bring in Pongracic to the Signal Iduna Park.
Dortmund manager Marco Rose wanted his club to bring in Pongracic. Rose has worked with the Croatian previously when they were together at RB Salzburg. The 23-year-old is a central defender who can also be used in the right-back position, helping Dortmund address their issues.
PONGRACIC THE ANSWER TO DORTMUND DEFENCE
Dortmund had a mixed start to their new campaign. They have six points from the three matches they have played in Bundesliga, sitting 5th in the table. One common theme in this was the goals the team have conceded. In their 3 matches, the club has already let in 6 goals. Add in the three goals conceded in the DFL Supercup, the problem is evident.
The defence has been shaky for the team and injuries have not been helpful. The unavailability of Mats Hummels and Dan-Axel Zagadou due to injury meant that the club is relying on midfielder Witsel in defence. Many of the goals conceded have been due to mistakes in the defence. The club hierarchy has been looking in the market and now believes Pongracic as the solution.
Though the Croatian has not been a regular for Wolfsburg, manager Rose is an admirer. Pongracic has played under Rose when they were in RB Salzburg and is a big reason behind Dortmund signing him. Pongracic can also play in the right-back, a position the club was also looking to strengthen.
The 23-year-old has appeared 21 times in Bundesliga over his two year time and has scored twice. He will join Dortmund on an initial one-year deal, but reports suggest that there will be an option to buy him for €10 million.
Do follow us on Twitter to get the latest football news and updates.
