Hoffenheim director of football Alexander Rosen says it is 'painful' to lose Georginio Rutter but admits that it would have 'made no sense' to block his move to Leeds United.
Rutter has penned a five-and-a-half-year deal with the Whites for a fee in the region of an initial £30million, with add-ons expected to increase the deal to £35 million.
The Frenchman becomes Leeds' second signing of the January transfer window, after Max Wober arrived from Red Bull Salzburg earlier this month.
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Although Hoffenheim say they 'regret' Rutter's early departure, they reluctantly stepped aside to let the Frenchman to pursue his goal of playing in the Premier League.
“Transfers like Georginio Rutter’s to TSG Hoffenheim are only possible because of transfers like Georginio Rutter’s to Leeds United," Rosen revealed on Hoffenheim's official website.
“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.
"For several years now, the chance to develop and make a name for yourself with us has ensured that we are always able to attract young, exciting players. Transfers like this, as painful as they may be at the moment, raise our profile and our attractiveness for top domestic and international talent. They like to come here, but they don’t stay forever."
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