'I was convinced' - Sebastiaan Bornauw lifts lid on loan move from Leeds United to Hamburg
Sebastiaan Bornauw has explained how he was quickly convinced to make a loan move from Leeds United to Hamburg
Hamburg did not take long convincing Sebastiaan Bornauw to join the club on loan from Leeds United.
The 27-year-old has sealed a return to the Bundesliga just a year on from his switch to Elland Road from Wolfsburg.
He has joined Hamburg on a loan deal containing an option to buy, potentially bringing the curtain down on his time at Elland Road.
A six-cap Belgium international, Bornauw managed just five starts in his maiden Premier League campaign.
Sebastiaan Bornauw on Hamburg move
After completing his move to Hamburg, he told his new club’s website: “I was convinced from the very first moment during the talks with HSV because I felt the trust of those in charge.
“I'm really happy to be here. I like the emotions that surround a traditional club like HSV. As a player, that gives me a lot of energy. The fans can look forward to me always giving my all for my team.”
Bornauw found himself behind Joe Rodon, Jaka Bijol and Pascal Struijk in the centre-back pecking order last season.
Struijk’s move to Brighton & Hove Albion briefly opened a window of opportunity for Bornauw, although Leeds swooped quickly to sign Tarik Muharemović from Sassuolo.
‘He exemplifies discipline and professionalism’
Hamburg’s board member for sport, Kathleen Krüger, said: “Sebastiaan is already familiar with the Bundesliga from his previous clubs and brings a special work ethic.
“He exemplifies discipline and professionalism every day and also embodies team spirit, strength of character, and communication skills.
“His personality makes him a great asset to any locker room and a perfect fit for our team structure. He will take on a leading role within the team and further improve his teammates through his coaching expertise.
“We are confident that he will quickly integrate into our team and warmly welcome Sebastiaan.”