Zambia striker Patson Daka completes move to German side Hamburg 

German Bundesliga side Hamburg have completed the signing of Zambia international Patson Daka on a free transfer, strengthening their attacking options ahead of the new league campaign.

The 27-year-old striker successfully completed his medical at the Volksparkstadion on Tuesday before linking up with his new teammates at the club’s pre-season training camp in Austria.

Daka was available as a free agent after leaving Leicester City in May following the club’s relegation from the English Championship to the third tier.

The Zambian forward had spent three seasons with the Foxes but departed after the club’s disappointing campaign.

Hamburg’s board member for sport, Kathleen Krüger, expressed confidence in the striker’s ability to make an impact, highlighting his experience and qualities as a goalscorer.

“Patson’s signing strengthens us at centre-forward and is a good fit for the profile we were looking for. He’s a team player and has lots of international experience. We firmly believe Patson will help our team with his qualities,” Krüger said.

Daka arrives at Hamburg with an impressive pedigree, having earned 57 caps and scored 22 goals for Zambia.

He made his name at Austrian giants Red Bull Salzburg, where he enjoyed a remarkable 2020/21 season, scoring 27 league goals to finish as the Austrian Bundesliga’s top scorer and win the Player of the Year award.

Hamburg will be hoping the forward can rediscover that prolific form as they look to improve their attacking output after recording one of the lowest goal tallies in the Bundesliga last season.

Speaking after completing his move, Daka expressed his excitement about joining the club and getting started with his new challenge.

“I’m delighted to be here and can hardly wait to get going. I’m a passionate and energetic player whose job is to score goals,” Daka said.

“I’ve seen a few HSV games. They’re an exciting team and I’m happy to be a part of that now. The whole package made sense for me, meaning I didn’t have to think long.”

The Zambian striker will now aim to lead Hamburg’s attacking line and help the club achieve their ambitions in the Bundesliga season ahead.