Hamburg's Calhanoglu moves to Leverkusen

Hakan Calhanoglu runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between VfB Stuttgart and Hamburger SV at Mercedes-Benz Arena

Berlin, July 5 (IANS) German club Hamburg's Hakan Calhanoglu Friday put pen to paper on a five-year contract with Bundesliga rivals Bayer Leverkusen.

The Turkish international joins Hamburg's league rivals, and UEFA Champions League qualifiers Leverkusen, reports Xinhua.

"We are delighted that this transfer comes into being after intense but fair negotiations with Hamburg officials," Leverkusen CEO Michael Schade said.

The 20-year-old midfielder and free kick specialist scored eleven goals in 32 appearances for the HSV.

"I had a great time in Hamburg but I can take the next step in Leverkusen. Leverkusen has a great team and starts regularly in European competitions since years. Playing in the Champions League and for Leverkusen will be a great challenge for me," the new arrival commented in an official statement.

Leverkusen finished last season in fourth place, giving them the opportunity to clinch a spot for the Champions League.