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Leverkusen fill full-back void with Donati capture

"I will do everything possible to help this club achieve their goals," vowed Italy Under-21 right-back Giulio Donati after leaving FC Internazionale Milano to join Bayer 04 Leverkusen.

Giulio Donati played every minute of Italy's U21 campaign in Israel
Giulio Donati played every minute of Italy's U21 campaign in Israel ©Getty Images

Italy Under-21 full-back Giulio Donati has joined UEFA Champions League contenders Bayer 04 Leverkusen, filling the void left by Real Madrid CF-bound Daniel Carvajal.

The 23-year-old, who spent last term on loan with Italian second division outfit US Grosseto from FC Internazionale Milano, has penned a four-year contract. "I was very happy to do a deal with Leverkusen. I am looking forward to playing in the Bundesliga and the fact we are in the Champions League makes this challenge very special," he said.

"I will do everything possible to help this club achieve their goals," Donati added on the back of playing every minute of the Azzurrini's UEFA European U21 Championship campaign, including Tuesday's 4-2 defeat by Spain in the final.

Leverkusen sporting director Rudi Völler, whose club will compete in next season's UEFA Champions League group stage for the first time since 2011/12, said: "He's a player with great potential."