Hertha Berlin sign defender Kluenter from Cologne

Berlin, May 8 (IANS) Hertha Berlin have completed their second transfer for the upcoming football season after signing defender Lukas Kluenter from relegated side Cologne.

The 21-year-old German has put pen to paper on an undisclosed "long-term contract", effective from July 1, Hertha said on Monday, reports Xinhua news agency.

"We are very happy that Lukas has opted for us. He wants to take the next step with us and establish himself as a Bundesliga player. We are confident that he will help the team with his qualities," Hertha Berlin's sporting director Michael Preetz said.

Kluenter joined Cologne from lower league side Bonner SC in the summer of 2014. He has played 33 competitive games and provided two goals and one assist.

"I consider my transfer to Berlin as a great opportunity to develop personally. I want to put all my strength into this new task and exploit my potential," Lukas Kluenter said.

Berlin's new arrival made overall 11 caps for several German youth teams. 

Hertha currently sit at 10th place in the standings. They encounter 6th-placed Leipzig at the closure of the Bundesliga season 2017-18.