Elia completes Hamburg move

Elia completes Hamburg move
(PA) Monday 6 July 2009
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Hamburg have completed the signing of striker Eljero Elia from Twente. The 22-year-old has signed a five-year deal with the Bundesliga club, with the transfer fee reported to be in the region of €9m.

Elia was coveted by a number of clubs in Germany and the Netherlands, after netting nine goals in 34 league games for Twente last season. But he is happy to have signed for a team expected to challenge for the Bundesliga title next season under new coach Bruno Labbadia.

"HSV is a super club," Elia told Hamburg's official website. "I had a good feeling from the very beginning and really wanted to join them. I am delighted that the transfer is now done and dusted."
Eljero has tremendous potential. I am convinced that he will delight many people with his speed and dazzling skill in one-on-one situations.
Hamburg coach Bruno Labbadia on the club's new signing Eljero Elia

Labbadia was equally enthusiastic when discussing the new arrival. "Eljero has tremendous potential. I am convinced that he will delight many people with his speed and dazzling skill in one-on-one situations," he said.

"What impresses me is that he decided to join HSV despite several other clubs wanting to sign him."

Elia is the third new signing at the Nordbank Arena, following experienced midfielder Ze Roberto and Robert Tesche to the club.