Makoto Hasebe has departed VfL Wolfsburg to join Bundesliga rivals FC Nurnberg.
The 29-year old Japan defensive midfielder passed a medical with Nurnberg on Sunday and was officially unveiled on Monday morning.
Hasebe joined Wolfsburg from Urawa Reds in 2008, making over 150 appearances, and arrives at Nurnberg to replace veteran Timmy Simons who recently joined Belgian side Club Brugge.
"After the surprise transfer of Timmy Simons, we thought a lot about how we could compensate for his loss," said Nurnberg's sporting director Martin Bader.
"Makoto Hasebe was soon identified as a suitable solution. The reason it took so long is because he has such a high standing in Wolfsburg after six years there."
Nurnberg manager Michael Wiesinger added: "Makoto is a player who brings leadership qualities with him and who has convinced us in terms of his character. He knows the Bundesliga well and will help us immediately."
