Julian Borner reveals why he went back on Arminia Bielefeld contract promise as he looks set to join Sheffield Wednesday

German defender Julian Borner has revealed why he looks set to go back on a 'pledge' to stay at Arminia Bielefeld - and instead sign for Sheffield Wednesday.
Sheffiled Wednesday are close to signing the German defender.Sheffiled Wednesday are close to signing the German defender.
Sheffiled Wednesday are close to signing the German defender.

German defender Julian Borner has revealed why he looks set to go back on a 'pledge' to stay at Arminia Bielefeld - and instead sign for Sheffield Wednesday.

The 28-year-old is believed to be on the verge of signing for the Owls on a free transfer this summer.

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Steve Bruce has made a move for the centre-half as he looks to construct a side capable of following in rivals Sheffield United's footsteps and gaining promotion to the Premier League.

Borner, Arminia's captain, had verbally agreed a new contract at the club, but has gone back on that deal after holding talks with the Owls hierarchy.

Borner said: "It is true that the DSC and I had already verbally agreed on further cooperation for some time, but so far there had been no signing of the contract.

"In the short term, I received a request from England, which I wanted to examine thoroughly. Because playing there has always been a lifelong dream of mine, which I can now fulfil. This change includes a sporting and economic component that I could not refuse.

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"I am very sorry that I had to withdraw my pledge now. I had five wonderful years at the DSC. Bielefeld has become my home. I wish the DSC Arminia all the best and much success."

There appears to be no hard feelings between Arminia and the player, despite his change of heart. Samir Arabi, the sports director of the German club, said: "We would have liked to have extended with Julian and the agreement was reached. Therefore, we are disappointed that in this case the given word does not matter.

"Nevertheless, we wish Julian all the best for his future in England."

Borner, capped twice at Germany Under-18s level, started his career with Energie Cottbus before joining Arminia in the summer of 2014. He has played nearly 150 times in Germany's second-tier.