Japan international Shūto Machino has joined Borussia Mönchengladbach from Holstein Kiel, putting pen to paper on a four-year deal through to 2029.
Machino, 25, spent two seasons in Germany’s north with Kiel after joining in summer 2023 from Japanese outfit Shonan Bellmare.
During his time there he helped propel the Storks into the Bundesliga for the first time in the club’s history, before scoring 11 goals and providing four assists in the top flight.
“Shūto is a versatile striker who can play in different positions and so gives us lots of possibilities in attack,” said Gladbach sporting director Roland Virkus of the signing.
“He proved last season that he can reach double digits for goals in the Bundesliga, so we’re pleased that he’s opted for Borussia.”
Amidst interest from several clubs, Gladbach came out ahead as they seek attacking reinforcements. They were in fact on the end of one of Machino’s best displays last season, scoring a brace – including a 91st-minute winner, in Kiel’s 4-3 victory against his new club.
“I really wanted to move to Borussia, so I’m pleased the transfer has worked out. I now want to do my all to help the team as quickly as possible,” Machino said of his switch.
A senior Japan international with four goals in eight appearances for his country, Machino helps plug the gap left by the departing Alassane Pléa and also the injury to top scorer Tim Kleindienst, who won’t be back in action until the autumn.
Borussia have already added Haris Tabaković on loan from Hoffenheim in attack.
Gladbach begin their season at Atlas Delmenhorst in the first round of the DFB Cup on Sunday, 17 August. Their Bundesliga campaign kicks off at home to newly promoted Hamburg seven days later.
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