Leverkusen confirm Hilbert signing

Bayer Leverkusen have confirmed the signing of Germany international Roberto Hilbert from Besiktas.

The right-sided midfielder, who can also play in defence, returns to Germany on a free transfer after a three-year spell at the BJK Inonu Stadium.

Prior to his stint in Turkey, the 28-year-old played for both Stuttgart and Greuther Furth and Leverkusen’s managing director Wolfgang Holzhauser said his experience will aid the squad.

“We have succeeded in bringing an experienced, attacking right back to Bayer 04 Leverkusen. Roberto also has European experience and he gives us another option on the right flank,” he told the club’s official website.

Leverkusen qualified for the UEFA Champions League last season thanks to a third-place finish in the Bundesliga.

While they were dealt a blow with the departure of Andre Schurrle to Chelsea earlier in the close-season, the club’s sporting director Rudi Voller said the signing of Hilbert would give the side flexibility.

“Hilbert tackles well, is aggressive and he has the necessary attacking ability to give us more flexibilty,” he stated.

Hilbert added: “I’m glad the transfer has gone through. Bayer 04 Leverkusen is a great club and I’ve been given the chance to show what I can do in the Bundesliga and the Champions League.”

Leverkusen have been busy in the transfer market ahead of the new Bundesliga campaign, with Heung Min Son, Robbie Kruse and Giulio Donati all joining recently.