Bayern Munich signs Serdar Tasci to address defensive injuries

With injuries to Jerome Boateng, Javi Martinez, and Medhi Benatia robbing Pep Guardiola of his depth at centre-back, Bayern Munich made a late move to help address the issue with another healthy body.

The club announced Monday, one day before the closure of the Bundesliga's transfer window, that Serdar Tasci has been signed from Russian side Spartak Moscow on loan. The Bavarian giant has an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.

"We're delighted at the opportunity to bring a player like Serdar Tasci to FC Bayern at short notice," sporting director Matthias Sammer said. "Thanks to his quality and experience, he's in a position to help us at once."

"I'm feeling very good and I'm really looking forward to the new challenge. I hope I can be of assistance to the team," Tasci said after signing his contract.

The 28-year-old started 16 Russian Premier League matches this season prior to his move, and will be in familiar territory in Germany - he spent seven years with VfB Stuttgart before signing with the Russian club.