Union Berlin reach agreement to sign Marin Ljubicic; Maximilian Philipp next? | OneFootball

The latest news on incoming transfers at Union Berlin strongly suggest that die Eisernen are about to unveil two new signings. Two attackers – one from within the German Bundesliga and one from the Austrian Bundesliga – appear set to arrive in Köpenick. Kicker reports that the acquisition of LASK Linz striker Marin Ljubicic is on the home stretch. The 22-year-old is reportedly in Berlin for Saturday night’s game.

Kicker notes that a base-transfer-fee of €4.5m with an additional €1m in bonuses has been agreed to. Union have evidently outpaced several other potential suitors interested in the Croatian youth international after he scored 36 goals in 100 total appearances for his ÖFB outfit. Ljubicic – who scored four goals and registered two assists in 16 league appearances for Linsk this season – can play both as a centre-forward and on the right wing.

When a formal introduction will come remains unclear. Union may wait until a reported upon transfer for Berlin-native Maximilian Philipp is finalised before presenting both players in a dual unveiling. Florian Plettenberg reports that the Freiburg man is finally headed back to his hometown. Whether a loan or outright purchase of the 30-year-old has been arranged is not known yet.

In any event, bringing the German journeyman in would make a great deal of sense. With the additions of Ljubicic and Philipp (Benedict Hollerbach can play effectively on the left), Union head coach Steffen Baumgart shall possess, on paper at least, a well-constructed three-pronged-attack at his disposal.

GGFN | Peter Weis