Jack Beresford:
Mario Gotze is due to join Bayern Munich this summer after a 37-million euro release clause in the player’s contract was activated by the Bavarian club.
The news was confirmed by Borussia Dortmund today, with the club admitting that Gotze’s agent informed them of the plans days ago.
The statement said: “Mario Götze’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.”
Hans-Joachim Watzke, Borussia Dortmund’s CEO said: “We are obviously disappointed beyond measure, but emphasise that both Mario and his advisers have behaved within the terms of the contract. From Bayern Munich there has been nothing official on this matter up to this date.”
Gotze will sign until 2016.