Official: Bayern complete Thiago deal

Bayern Munich have confirmed that they have secured the services of Thiago Alcantara from Barcelona for an agreed fee of €20 million, potentially rising to €25m.

Pep Guardiola recently already stated that he was keen to lure the 22-year-old to the Allianz Arena and the deal has now been completed as Thiago has signed a contract with the Bavarians until the summer of 2017.

The Spain international initially appeared to be on his way to Manchester United in search of regular first team football, but the presence of former coach Guardiola at the Allianz Arena eventually prompted Thiago to Germany instead.

"Thiago was bought at the strong desire of our new coach Pep Guardiola," Bayern chief Karl-Heinz Rummenigge told his new club's official website.

"We are pleased that we succeeded in this big transfer. Thiago has just been starring in the Under-21 Euros. He is a fantastic player who will strengthen Bayern."