Eight-time German champions Borussia Dortmund, who have qualified for the 2017/18 Champions League, have signed the talented French youngster Dan-Axel Zagadou, 18, from top Ligue 1 outfit Paris St. Germain ahead of the coming season.

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(dpa)

The 1.95-metre tall defensive specialist, whose contract in Paris had expired, is regarded as one of France's top footballing talents and is now a key component of their U18 side, having represented Les Bleus at all youth levels and also worn the captain's armband. Zagadou, whose services had been sought by a number of Europe's top clubs, is strong into the tackle and in the air, and possesses an excellent left foot which he uses to play the ball out from the back.

"Dan-Axel Zagadou will be a full member of our professional squad from July. We have conducted this transfer with the future in mind, are fully convinced of the player's abilities and look forward to helping him to take the next steps of his footballing development as a BVB first-team player," emphasised Borussia Dortmund's Sporting Director Michael Zorc.

"I made the conscious decision to sign for BVB because they are a top club that repeatedly succeed in integrating young players into the first team and continue to develop them at the highest level," said Zagadou, adding: "I'm very excited aboutt my new team-mates, the impressive stadium, the famous fans and really hope to mature into an established professional footballer in Dortmund!"

Zagadou has signed a five-year contract until 30 June 2022.