Bayern signs defender Dante from Gladbach

Munich, Germany – Bayern Munich signed Brazilian center back Dante from Bundesliga rival Monchengladbach on Thursday on a four-year deal.

The 28-year-old Dante, uncapped on the international level for Brazil, started his club career with Brazil's Juventude, and had stints at France's Lille, and Belgium's Charleroi and Standard Liege before joining Gladbach in 2009.

"Bayern Munich is one of the three or four biggest clubs in the world," Dante said. "With Bayern I have the chance of playing at the very highest level and of winning trophies.

"I'm 28 now and want to take this step in my career."

Dante has been a crucial piece for Monchengladbach, helping the club to fourth place this season with two matches remaining, and at least a qualification spot for next season's Champions League.

While Dante fills a need at Bayern, which has been thin in defense, he becomes the latest to leave Monchengladbach, following Marco Reus' transfer to Borussia Dortmund.

"We're delighted Dante is coming to Bayern," Munich director of sport Christian Nerlinger said. "He's a very good and high-profile Bundesliga player, who will help us hit our targets over the next four years."