Friedrich opts for Hertha switch

Hertha BSC Berlin have agreed a deal that will see versatile DSC Arminia Bielefeld defender Arne Friedrich move to the club in a €3m deal at the end of the season.

Coveted signing
Hertha beat UEFA Cup challengers BV Borussia Dortmund, 1. Bundesliga leaders Bayer 04 Leverkusen and champions FC Bayern München to the signature of Friedrich on a three-year contract.

‘Still left to learn’
"Arne's a very fast defender who's able to play in three different defensive positions," said Hertha sport director Dieter Hoeness of his club's latest recruit. "Despite his age, he's already come far but there's still a lot left for him to learn and we are extremely pleased that he's decided to pursue his career here."

World Cup aim
Friedrich impressed Hertha while playing for Germany in an Under-21 international against the Netherlands. He is seen as a likely member of his country's 2006 FIFA World Cup squad, but this summer's event in Korea/Japan will probably come too soon.