By Rune Gjerulff@runegjerulff

Hitzfeld: Dortmund have lacked a leader like Hummels in defence

Ottmar Hitzfeld believes Mats Hummels would benefit Borussia Dortmund with his leadership qualities.
Mats Hummels.
Mats Hummels.Photo: Rufus46, CC BY-SA 3.0
Following the signings of Thorgan Hazard (Gladbach), Nico Schulz (Hoffenheim) and Julian Brandt (Bayer Leverkusen), Borussia Dortmund are now trying to bring Mats Hummels back from Bayern München.

And former Dortmund and Bayern coach Ottmar Hitzfeld can see why BVB want re-sign the 30-year-old who joined Bayern in 2016.

"Dortmund lacked a leader in defence like Mats Hummels last season," Hitzfeld said in an interview with Sport Bild and added:

"They showed last season that they have the potential to win the title. With the new signings, Dortmund have become even stronger and have increased their squad depth. Also, they will reignite the competition. All of Germany is lucky that there will be an exciting title fight again."

Former Borussia Dortmund CEO Michael Meier believes Hummels would do BVB's young squad good.

"It doesn't really fit in with their strategy to sign a 30-year-old. They have previously succeeded in signing young players with potential to develop. That's how BVB won the title under Jürgen Klopp. They're trying to refine this strategy," Meier said and continued:

"Mats Hummels would not only be able to help the young players, but also put pressure on them. This creates a new dynamic."

According to Sky, BVB have agreed personal terms with Hummels. Only the transfer fee remains to be sorted out before the 30-year-old can return to his former club.

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