Schlotterbeck sets Southampton promotion target after Augsburg move

Keven Schlotterbeck has joined Southampton from FC Augsburg with promotion as his central target, saying the club’s ambitions match his own. The 29-year-old defender is preparing for his first season in the Championship after moving from Germany.

Schlotterbeck has made more than 150 Bundesliga appearances and is expected to strengthen Tonda Eckert’s defensive options. He said discussions with Johannes Spors and the club helped convince him that Southampton’s approach to football was aligned with his own ideas.

The centre-back described the move as an opportunity to start a new chapter in another country and help Southampton push for a higher level. He is especially focused on the club’s home fixtures, with the prospect of playing at St Mary’s and visiting new grounds adding to his excitement about the campaign.

Southampton’s stated objective is to win the Championship and secure promotion to the Premier League. Schlotterbeck said that ambition was a major reason for his arrival and that he wanted to contribute to the team, coaching staff and wider club during the season.

The German defender believes his left foot and aerial ability will be important qualities in England. He also placed strong emphasis on his attitude in individual battles, describing determination and commitment as key parts of his game.

Schlotterbeck is the older brother of Borussia Dortmund and Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck. He said moving abroad would help him develop through exposure to a different culture and style of football, while he continues working to improve his English. Southampton will be his first club outside Germany.