Hoffenheim have confirmed that they have signed Franco Zuculini from Racing Club Avellaneda in Argentina for 4.7million euros.
Last season s surprise Bundesliga leaders going into the winter break have moved quickly to sign the 18-year-old, beating off competition from Werder Bremen in the process.
The small German club have made it their philosophy to scour the globe for the world s hottest young talent and giving them a platform to perform.
The midfielder has established himself in the Racing Club first team this term after only making his debut in April 2008.
The youngster s rise did not stop there after Argentina manager Diego Maradona handed him his first international cap against Panama a month ago.
Zuculini is yet to sign his contract although personal terms have been agreed and the Argentine could soon be followed to Hoffenheim by his brother.
Franco is a player full of talent and he has a lot of heart, Hoffenheim manager Jan Schindelmeiser said.
Franco should come to Germany in a few days for final medical tests. We have agreed his contractual conditions with his father though the deal has yet to be signed.
