Third new signing
Bayern poised to confirm Sosa capture
28.02.2007
Bayern's first Argentine import Martin Demichelis can look forward to playing alongside a fellow countryman soon, general manager Uli Hoeneß confirmed on Wednesday, as the German champions close in on a deal for midfielder José Ernesto Sosa of Estudiantes de la Plata.
"It's very likely we'll be announcing a done deal in the next few days," Hoeneß declared. Sosa is expected in Munich for a medical within the next 10 days, "and we'll complete the formalities at that point," the Bayern official continued. Sosa would be the club's third new signing for next season alongside Jan Schlaudraff of Alemannia Aachen and Schalke dynamo Hamit Altintop.
Reminiscent of Deisler
Hoeneß has likened the 21-year-old South American's ability to the abundant skill possessed by Sebastian Deisler, and the Bavarians are preparing to offer the Argentine player a long-term contract. "Everything's ready. All that's missing are the medical and my signature," Sosa told Argentine daily El Dia on Wednesday. "I'm delighted we've reached agreement, and I'm looking forward to the new challenge."
"He's an extremely skilful player who operates on the right side," Hoeneß explained, although the player can switch flanks or play in the hole behind the front two if necessary. He has recently lined up alongside former international Juan Sebastian Veron for his home town club Estudiantes, and is reported to have consulted the former Lazio and Chelsea star about the merits of a switch to Europe.
Decisive contribution to title
Sosa, who stands 1.79 metres/5 ft 10 inches and weighs 79 kilograms/174 pounds, has made 105 league appearances for Estudiantes, scoring 11 goals (data from official club homepage). The most important of these came in mid-December when he hit the target in his side's 2-1 victory over Boca Juniors in the Argentine championship decider. On Tuesday, national boss Alfio Basile handed him a call-up to the full Argentina squad.
"Bayern are one of the best in the world, a highly respected club and an outstanding team," Sosa was reported as saying. The newcomer will undoubtedly find a source of help and advice in Demichelis. "We've not spoken to each other yet, but we have a mutual friend, and he'll definitely make sure we get in touch," Micho informed fcayern.de.
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