Bittencourt signs for Hannover

Borussia Dortmund have confirmed that midfielder Leonardo Bittencourt has agreed to move to Hannover.

The 19-year-old, who joined Dortmund from Energie Cottbus in June 2012, makes the switch to the AWD-Arena after just one season at the Westfalenstadion, although there is a buy back clause included in the deal.

Bittencourt, who struggled to break in to an extremely talented Dortmund team, will now attempt to hone his abilities with Mirko Slomka’s side, but could return to the eight-time Bundesliga winners if he impresses with Hannover.

The youngster, who is of Brazilian descent, has already played at representative level for the Germany Under-19 side and was given his bow by Juergen Klopp in the 2-1 home defeat to local rivals Schalke back in October.

Bittencourt also appeared in the UEFA Champions League, coming on in the 1-0 win over Manchester City in December.

“We wish Leonardo Bittencourt well for his personal future,” Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc said in a statement on the club’s official website.

Bittencourt made nine appearances for Dortmund last season, scoring one goal.