Leeds United have snapped up Georginio Rutter and Hoffenheim have paid tribute to the forward as he heads to Elland Road.
The Whites knew they needed to sign a new striker heading into this January transfer window.
Patrick Bamford’s injuries have been piling up of late and Jesse Marsch needed a big attacking signing.
Victor Orta has duly obliged, securing a huge deal to sign Hoffenheim striker Rutter with the move confirmed on Saturday night.
Leeds are paying an enormous fee to sign Rutter; a package worth up to £35million with the Frenchman seemingly breaking the Leeds record.
Rutter will now be expected to make a big impact for Leeds – and Hoffenheim clearly think they have lost a top player.
Hoffenheim chief hails Leeds United signing Georginio Rutter
Hoffenheim director of football Alexander Rosen has offered his reaction to Leeds snapping up Rutter.
Rosen has told the club’s official website that Hoffenheim obviously wish Rutter was staying for a little longer as he is a ‘highly talented player’ who can produce ‘spectacular moments’.
Rosen added that Rutter communicated his desire to leave and Hoffenheim just couldn’t stand in his way, especially with so much money on offer.
“Transfers like Georginio Rutter’s to TSG Hoffenheim are only possible because of transfers like Georginio Rutter’s to Leeds United,” said Rosen. “But of course we regret the premature departure of this highly talented player, who is not only a great guy but also has the ability to provide spectacular moments on the pitch.”
“In light of the third-highest transfer fee in the club’s history, as well as the clearly communicated desire to move, it would not have made sense to block a young player like Georgi from the path he is pursuing. I’m sure I’m not the only one who will miss him,” he added.
Rutter, 20, is a hugely exciting talent and has racked up the most completed dribbles in the Bundesliga this season – even more than Jamal Musiala of Bayern Munich.
Goals haven’t exactly flowed though with Rutter managing just two in 15 Bundesliga outings this season.
Eight goals last season was much better and Leeds will have seen enough potential to suggest that he can grow into a goalscorer.
Leeds fans can expect entertainment from Rutter moving forward and Rosen’s verdict will certainly leave fans excited to see him in action.
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