Official: Oddo Signs For Bayern

Bayern Munich have announced the signing of Milan full back Massimo Oddo on a one-year loan deal, with the option of making the move permanent next summer.

Right back Oddo has been heavily linked with an exit from Milan in the past week or so as he is currently well down the Rossonero pecking order, behind both Daniele Bonera and new signing Gianluca Zambrotta.

Yesterday morning, reports started to emerge that Oddo had signed for French club Lyon after he was supposedly spotted in the city. A few hours later it was then reported that Bayern Munich were trying to hijack Lyon’s move for the 32-year-old, and the German champions have now officially confirmed that they have signed the player.

Oddo arrives on a one-year loan deal, and Bayern will have the option next summer to make the move permanent for a set fee. In essence he replaces left back Marcel Jansen, who yesterday left the club to join Hamburg.

"Massimo Oddo is a player who covers the whole right-hand side,” said the Bavarian’s manager Jurgen Klinsmann.

“For us he's a huge quality boost because of his experience, and his tactical and technical skills. He's a great enhancement to the squad."

General manager Uli Hoeneß explained the reason why Oddo will only initially arrive on loan.

"This way there's no risk," he said.

"Next summer we'll see."

Another high profile figure who is delighted by Oddo’s capture is the legendary Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, who said: "We're happy to have Massimo Oddo, who is an experienced and successful defender.

“Another World Cup and Champions League winner in Bayern's ranks will help us to succeed."

Oddo will team up with 2006 World Cup winner Luca Toni, who had an outstanding first season at the Alianz Arena last term.