TSG sign Håvard Nordtveit

It's a transfer that Alexander Rosen has been working on for some time. "He is much more than just a strong addition to our squad on a sporting level," said the TSG director of football. "Håvard is also a big personality off the pitch. Without his willingness to make a personal financial sacrifice, this transfer would never have been possible."

The 6'2'' defensive all-rounder's decision join Hoffenheim is one that Rosen attributes, among other things, to the Norwegian's good character. "Despite having already played at the highest level in the Bundesliga for a number of years, his development is by no means over. He is thoroughly convinced that working under Julian [Nagelsmann] will be able to help him further improve his game."

The head coach believes that Nordtveit will become a leading personality within in the team in no time through a combination of experience and thirst for a new challenge. "In Håvard, I am convinced that we have found a player who will give our game another dimension. He brings with him the perfect attributes needed for a centre back in a back-three or a back-four, and can even play to a high level as a defensive midfielder," said Nagelsmann.

After what Nordtveit described as a "less than ideal" year in England, he is fully motivated to find his old level again back in the Bundesliga. "I obviously know the Bundesliga very well from my years at Gladbach and I'm convinced I will be able to make the impact that TSG are hoping for," said the Norwegian, who made 16 Premier League appearances for West Ham and whose contract with the London club was due to expire in June 2021. "Hoffenheim's playing style and Alex and Julian's extensive efforts to bring me to the club were decisive factors in reaching a decision."

Born in Vats, Norway, Nordtveit moved to Germany from Arsenal in 2009, first linking up with 1. FC Nürnberg. After 19 top-flight appearances for FCN, he completed a move to Borussia Möchengladbach, where he became a first-team regular. He featured in 152 Bundesliga appearances for the Fohlenelf, scoring ten goals and assisting a further nine. He also made twelve Europa League and six Champions League appearances for Gladbach. The Norwegian has also played for his nation at all youth levels, going on to make his senior debut on 7th June 2011. He has won a total of 32 international caps (2 goals) and recently captained his country in a friendly against Norway.