BERLIN, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Defender Sven Bender moves from Borussia Dortmund to league rivals Bayer Leverkusen, both clubs announced in an official statement on Thursday.
The "Werkself" have completed their second summer signing as Sven Bender put pen to paper on a four-year deal, which will bind him to Leverkusen until June 2021. He will thus play with his twin brother, and team captain, Lars Bender in the same team.
"Sven is an extraordinary experienced and versatile player, who has proven his qualities in Dortmund's defense lately. His qualities and leadership abilities will be a good thing for our squad," Leverkusen's sporting director Rudi Voeller said.
The 28-year-old defender played since July 2009 for the "BVB" where he made 162 competitive appearances, providing four goals and five assists. Bender is since 2011 part of Germany's national team and made seven caps ever since.
"Despite eight wonderful years at Dortmund, the transfer request from Leverkusen was extremely appealing. From many matches against Leverkusen I know the strengths of the club and I also know how well Lars feels here," Sven Bender said.
Bayer Leverkusen will encounter titleholders Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga season opener on August 18.