Crvena zvezda fans have got their wish - Aleksandar Dragović has just signed for the red and whites.
The experienced centre-back is our first recruit after the end of highly successful 2020/21 season. Dragović has agreed to a three-year contract with the club.
"I'm delighted to have signed. I've always said that it was my dream to play for Crvena zvezda and it's finally reality. I was a bit nervous and excited because this is my favourite club. I can't wait to start training with my new team. I've spoken to captain Milan Borjan, Miloš Degenek and former captain Vujadin Savić. They all had only nice things to say regarding the club. They told me thap playing at Marakana was the best feeling ever and I can't wait to taste that and win a Belgrade Derby in front of full stands."
The strong defender revealed where his love for the club comes from.
"My grandfather is the reason I love Zvezda so much. When I was a boy, he used to take me to matches. I grew up watching this team and dreaming of it. My grandad is a very happy man today!"
The Austria international will join up with the squad after the EURO 2020.
"It was fantastic to watch Zvezda play in Europe regularly over the past four season. Another big factor in me joining is that Dejan Stanković has agreed to extend his stay here. He's going to be a great coach just as he was a great player. I'm looking forward to learning from him. I'll try to fit in here as quickly as possible."
The former Austria Wien, Basel and Dynamo Kyiv stopper has spent a short spell with Leicester City in England before going on to star for Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the German Bundesliga. His ambitions are as high as can be.
"I want us to qualify for the Champions League. It will always be our goal but we'll have to make sure we're taking it one match at a time. Hopefully my experience will aid the team. We'll work as a unit and fight to represent Crvena zvezda and bring many trophies to our fans. I hope they'll be there to cheer us on from the stands when new season kicks off because it's the best feeling for a footballer."
Aleksandar Dragović will wear the number 15 shirt. Welcome!