Joel Pohjanpalo has become Union Berlin’s latest summer signing. The 26-year-old has joined on a season-long loan from Bundesliga Rivals Bayer Leverkusen, with a purchase option also available.
He becomes the clubs’ 12th summer signing as Union look to secure their first league win of the new season on Friday against Mainz 05.
Joel Pohjanpalo Joins Union Berlin on Loan From Bayer Leverkusen
Career So Far
Capped 32 times by Finland, the striker has spent most of his career playing in Germany. Having started his career at Klubi-04, Pohjanpalo joined HJK Helsinki, where he scored 24 times from 70 appearances as they secured three successive league titles.
The striker then joined Bayer Leverkusen on loan, who sent him out on loan again to both VfR Aalen and Fortuna Dusseldorf in 2. Bundesliga. Upon his return to Die Werkself, he signed permanently and scored eight times from 22 appearances for the club. Last season, he spent a short spell on loan at Hamburger SV, where he scored nine goals from 14 outings.
What Was Said?
Speaking to the clubs’ official website, Pohjanpalo said: “After half a year at Hamburg, it was important for me to have the chance to prove myself at the highest level and to back up my performances.
“Union is a great club, which I already known from my time in the 2.Bundesliga, and with whom, I’m committed to keeping in the Bundesliga. I’m already looking forward to the games at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei.”
Oliver Ruhnert, Director of Professional Football at Union Berlin, added: “Joel is a player who is always dangerous in front of goal so we are happy to add him to our squad.
“He fits perfectly into the requirements of our profile, he is physically robust and has proven his goalscoring ability in the past.
“We have always emphasised that we wanted to sign another striker and are sure Pohjanpalo will be good for the squad.”
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