Official | Southampton sign Bochum’s Armel Bella-Kotchap | OneFootball

Southampton have today confirmed the signing of Armel Bella-Kotchap from Bochum for a reported €11m. The German youth international has signed a four-year contract until 2026.

“It’s amazing and I’m delighted to be here. I think, every young player dreams to play in the Premier League and I’m here and I’m happy and thankful for that,” said the 20-year-old. “The coach has a big impact on me. We speak the same language and his interest was very big in me. The club convinced me and said they want to make a project with me and I’m ready to go and I will fight for my place.”

Bella-Kotchap has played 73 games in all competitions for Bochum, including 22 Bundesliga games last season as VfL secured their top flight status, finishing the season in 13th.

Bochum sporting director Sebastian Schindzielorz added: “His development has been followed with great attention not only nationwide but also internationally. VfL is advancing into unprecedented dimensions with this transfer. We can thurd offer the club a broader financial foundation again.”

VfL’s record departure was Leon Goretzka to Schalke in 2013 for around €5m.