Champion strikes

First summer transfer finalized – Karic joins Sturm

Emir Karic signed for Austria's double winners.(Bild: zVg/SK Sturm)

Sturm have signed their first summer transfer. Following the imminent departures of Amadou Dante (most recently on loan at FC Zurich) and David Schnegg (to the USA), a new left-back has docked in Graz in the shape of Emir Karic. Karic has signed a long-term contract until 2027. 20-year-old Dane Tochi Chukwuani, a midfielder for the new season, was already unveiled in March.

The 27-year-old native of Linz was trained in the youth ranks of LASK, before moving to Germany via Liefering and Altach to Darmstadt, where he played 27 games in the German Bundesliga last season. Sturm's future number 17 is moving to Graz on a free transfer.

Karic is with Schwarz-Weiß until 2027.(Bild: zVg/SK Sturm)

"When I heard about SK Sturm's interest, I didn't have to think twice. The chance to play in the Champions League with this team next season is extremely appealing. I'm looking forward to the start of training next week and can hardly wait to be on the pitch with this team," said Karic in a club statement, expressing his delight at the deal.

New facet
Just like sporting director Andi Schicker: "Emir has experience in a top European league. He also brings with him many of the virtues that fulfill our requirement profile for the full-back position - Karic can add a new facet to our game."