Borussia Dortmund have reached an agreement with FC Basel for the immediate transfer of Manuel Akanji. The 22-year-old defender has penned a deal tying him to the eight-time German champions until 30 June 2022.

"Manuel's performances put him on the radar of a number of top European clubs, and we're delighted that he's chosen to join us," said Borussia Dortmund's Sporting Director Michael Zorc. "He has already demonstrated at international and Champions League level that he can play at the highest level in Europe. Nonetheless, we still see him as a defender who has potential for further development."

Manuel Akanji has spent the past two and a half seasons playing for FC Basel, winning the Swiss Super League in 2016 and the domestic double in 2017. He scored five goals in 42 top-flight appearances for the club. In addition, the 1.87m-tall centre-back has represented Switzerland four times at senior level.

"The discussions I've had with those responsible at Borussia Dortmund made me feel comfortable. In that respect it was a decision of the heart. And I've always enjoyed the football they play in Dortmund," said Akanji of his transfer to BVB. He continued: "I'm looking forward to my time here and will give my best." Akanji will wear the number 16 on the back of his shirt.

Akanji, the son of a Swiss mother and a Nigerian father, made seven European appearances while a Basel player. This season he played the full 90 minutes in all six Champions League games for the Swiss outfit, helping them to reach the knockout stages. Akanji will also be eligible to represent Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Europa League this term.