Stuttgart sign forward Demirovic for reported club record fee

Bundesliga runners-up VfB Stuttgart have signed forward Ermedin Demirovic from Augsburg for a reported club record fee.

Stuttgart said on Tuesday that the 26-year-old Bosnia and Herzegovina international has signed a four-year contract until 2028.

According to news reports, Stuttgart have to pay €21 million ($22.9 million), plus add-ons, for Demirovic, who scored 15 goals and had 10 assists for Augsburg last season.

"Ermedin Demirovic has proven his special quality over several years. He is one of the top strikers in the Bundesliga," Stuttgart sporting director Fabian Wohlgemuth said.

"Ermedin is just as impressive as a goalscorer as he is in setting up goals. His experience and mentality make him an absolute asset for our team."

Demirovic said: "I'm very happy to be here. I can hardly wait for it to start. I became a fan of this team after the game [last season] in Stuttgart. I like the style of play and the team."

Demirovic is to take the place of Serhou Guirassy whose transfer to Borussia Dortmund is however pending on additional medical tests.

A knee injury was detected at the original medical last week but news reports said the deal is likely to be completed after all, with Sky TV expecting Guirassy to sign for Dortmund on Thursday.

Guirassy, who scored 28 Bundesliga goals last term, can leave Stuttgart via a release clause for less than €20 million.