Leon Balogun Joins Bundesliga Side Mainz

Nigeria international Leon Balogun has joined Bundesliga club on a free-transfer.

The 26-year-old, who made 21 appearances for SV Darmstadt 98 as they won promotion to the German top flight last season, has penned a three-year deal
with the Zerofivers.

Coach Martin Schmidt told the club website: “In Leon Balogun we have found an aggressive, strong-tackling full back, but who is also flexible across the back-four. He is a nice, intelligent guy who will not just enhance our team on the pitch, but also in the changing room.”

Leon Balogun Signs a Three-Year Contract With Mainz. Image: Mainz.
Leon Balogun Signs a Three-Year Contract With Mainz. Image: Mainz.

Leon Balogun has previously played for Hannover 96 (2008 – 2010), Werder Bremen (2010 – 12) and Fortuna Düsseldorf (2012 – 14), accumulating 23 appearances in the Bundesliga, as well as 32 in the 2. Bundesliga and 49 in the third division. After breaking his foot during his international debut in March 2014, he signed last year for Darmstadt 98 on a season-long loan.

“I’m looking forward to the upcoming challenge. Mainz 05 has established itself in the Bundesliga in the last few years, just like I’d like to do. This is a very good opportunity for me, and I am very happy and proud to be a future part of the 05s,” said Balogun, who has been capped four times by Nigeria.