Defender to join the Terriers on 1 July 2016
- Michael Hefele signs for Huddersfield Town- Dynamo Dresden captain to join on 1 July 2016
- Centre back signs a three year contract
Huddersfield Town can confirm that Michael Hefele will join the Club from 3. Bundesliga champions-elect Dynamo Dresden as a free agent on 1 July 2016.
Hefele, a 25 year-old centre back, has put pen to paper on a three year contract with the Terriers.
Michael arrives at the Club having captained his current side to promotion from the third tier of German football this season, secured by Dresden with five games to spare. Hefele and his teammates have lost just two of 34 games so far this term and currently tops the table by eight points.
Bavaria-born Michael started his career at another 3. Bundesliga side, Spielvereinigung Unterhaching, progressing through the youth system before making 32 senior appearances.
The 6’ 4” tall centre back moved to Bundesliga outfit SpVgg Greuther Fürth in 2012, where he made his German top flight debut.
Hefele spent six months on loan at SV Wacker Burghausen at start of 2014, making 15 appearances in the 3. Bundesliga, before joining Dynamo Dresden in June of that year.
It's at Dresden where he has played regular First Team football, scoring an impressive 10 goals in 72 appearances across the last two seasons.
He was made captain ahead of the current campaign and has led Dynamo to promotion, scoring six goals in 34 league appearances.
Huddersfield Town Head Coach David Wagner commented:
“Bringing Michael Hefele to Huddersfield Town is another sign of the progress the Club is making.
“Michael’s qualities will suit the Sky Bet Championship perfectly; he enjoys the physical battle with the strikers and all aspects of defending, plus he is happy to play with the ball on the pitch.
“He also has an excellent mentality and character; 100% professional on and off the pitch. As a young man of 25, he has led his club to promotion as captain and has enjoyed the experience of playing in front of 30,000 home fans every weekend.
“When we met Michael, that character was obvious – as was his desire to play and succeed in England.
“I have always said I would like two players in every position and Michael’s arrival means we have four great centre backs at the Club in him, Mark Hudson, Joel Lynch and Martin Cranie. That will help me make good decisions to keep the team fresh and performing to its best.”
An exclusive interview with new signing Michael will appear on HTTV shortly!
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