1. FC Union Berlin have turned Keita Endo's loan transfer from Yokohama F Marinos into a permanent transfer. The 23-year-old has signed for the Köpenick club for an undisclosed fee.

Endo has already made his mark on the Bundesliga, scoring his first goal against Arminia Bielefeld at the Stadion An der Alten Försterei. In his first season in Germany, Endo has made 14 appearances in Germany's top division.

"Despite the language barrier, I was given a really warm welcome here," said the Japanese winger. "I felt at home from day one and now I'm even more excited to be part of the team. Personally, I've been able to gain a lot of experience in the matches so far and I'm looking forward to playing in the Bundesliga next season."

"Keita has already shown the quality he brings to the table despite missing the start of the season due to injury and the difficult pandemic situation. Keita is ambitious, determined and very talented. He will have the time to develop permanently and help us further," added Oliver Ruhnert, 1. FC Union Berlin's Managing Director for Professional Football.