1. FC Union Berlin midfielder Robert Andrich has joined Bayer Leverkusen with immediate effect. 

The 26-year-old enjoyed two hugely successful years in Köpenick after signing from Heidenheim. Under Urs Fischer, Andrich established himself as a key player in the heart of midfield. He made 66 competitive appearances for Union, scoring nine goals and setting up another six. In his time in Köpenick, Andrich and Union have settled into the Bundesliga and qualified for the Europa Conference League. Brought up in Brandenburg, Andrich trained with the academy of Hertha Berlin before making his first steps in football with Dynamo Dresden, Wehen Wiesbaden and then Heidenheim.

"I had an incredibly wonderful time here at Union, so the decision to leave the club really wasn't easy for me. Nevertheless, I see the opportunity at Bayer to take the next step in my development, and I would like to take advantage of this opportunity now. I'm very grateful to all those responsible for making this step possible for me and would like to expressly thank all fans, staff and those responsible once again for the past two years," said the 26-year-old midfielder.

"Even if the decision as a club is not easy for us to let the player go, we have found a solution together with Leverkusen that is acceptable to all parties. From a sporting point of view, we regret his departure, but wish Robert all the best on his future path and thank him for his achievements in the jersey of 1. FC Union Berlin," said Oliver Ruhnert, 1. FC Union Berlin's Managing Director for Professional Football.