Youssoufa Moukoko leaves Borussia Dortmund on initial loan deal

Youssoufa Moukoko has completed his move from Borussia Dortmund to OGC Nice, joining the French side on an initial loan deal with an option to buy.

After weeks of speculation about his future, Youssoufa Moukoko has finally completed his move away from Borussia Dortmund. The talented striker joins OGC Nice on an initial loan deal until the end of the season. The French club will be able to to make the signing permanent for a fee close to 17 million euros.

"There is a lot of competition in our attack at the moment. It would therefore have been difficult for Youssoufa to get enough match practice in the coming months to develop further at a high level," Borussia Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl said. "We wish Youssoufa maximum success for the current season and will remain in close contact with him."

"Borussia Dortmund will always be a special club for me" - Youssoufa Moukoko

Moukoko was determined to leave Borussia Dortmund this summer after being left frustrated by his lack of playing time. While proposed moves to Marseille and Real Betis fell through, OGC Nice signalled their interest in signing the striker.

"Borussia Dortmund will always be a special club for me. I celebrated great success here as a young player, turned professional, played in the Bundesliga and the Champions League and was nominated for the national team. I would like to thank all the managers, coaches, players, staff and fans who have accompanied and supported me along the way," Moukoko said.

After being reduced to a bit-part role at Borussia Dortmund, Moukoko will now hope to make a fresh start in France and play regularly. OGC Nice will also compete in the UEFA Europa League this season.

The 19 year old is regarded as one of the most talented young strikers in Germany, and made his BVB first-team debut just one day after his 16th birthday. In 99 appearances for Borussia Dortmund, Moukoko scored 18 goals and assisted a further eight.