DUSSELDORF, Germany - Borussia Dortmund completed the signing Monday of central defender Manuel Akanji from Basel.
The 22-year-old Swiss international has signed a contract until June 30, 2022, Dortmund said in a statement.
Dortmund's sporting director Michael Zorc said: "Manuel's performances put him on the radar of a number of top European clubs, and we're delighted that he's chosen to join us.
"He has already demonstrated at international and Champions League level that he can play at the highest level in Europe. Nonetheless, we still see him as a defender who has potential for further development."
Akanji, the son of a Swiss mother and a Nigerian father, played the full 90 minutes in all six Champions League games for Basel this season, helping them to reach the knockout stages.
He will, however, be eligible to play for Dortmund in the Europa League.
"The discussions I've had with those responsible at Borussia Dortmund made me feel comfortable. In that respect it was a decision of the heart. And I've always enjoyed the football they play in Dortmund," Akanji told the Dortmund website.
He continued: "I'm looking forward to my time here and will give my best." Akanji will wear the number 16 on the back of his shirt.
DPA