Paderborn have announced the signing of Max Kruse on a free transfer.
Kruse had been on the search for a new club over the past six months after his contract with Wolfsburg had been terminated by mutual consent last November. The 35-year-old had made it clear that he wished to return to football and had opened up the possibility of moving to a 2. Bundesliga side, which is where he has signed with Paderborn.
“The talks were very good right from the start and convinced me. I don’t want to talk too much because, in the end, I’ll prove my ability on the pitch. There are really only three things to say: I’m really into football, I’m hungry for success and I want to attack with SC Paderborn 07!” Kruse explained.
“Max’s footballing qualities and goal instincts are undisputed,” said Paderborn sporting director Benjamin Weber. “His leadership strength and his experience at national and international level will also help us a lot.”
Kruse will add significant experience to a Paderborn side that has flirted with promotion back to the Bundesliga over the past few campaigns. In 307 Bundesliga games, Kruse has scored over 170 goals for six different sides.
The 35-year-old can also claim international experience having represented the German national side on 14 occasions, scoring four goals. Paderborn are well known for their attacking output, finishing as the league’s top scorers last season, despite a sixth-place finish. They will hope that the acquisition of Kruse can take them back to the Bundesliga.
GGFN | Will Shopland
