Bundesliga side Hamburg SV has made a double reinforcement just days after their opening defeat at Borussia Dortmund (0:2). On deadline day, the club presented not only their desired transfer target.

After lengthy negotiations, Hamburg SV confirmed two signings: The return of playmaker Fabio Vieira is complete. Additionally, Moroccan international Zakaria El Ouahdi is joining the club on the Elbe, as the northern German side announced on Tuesday at midday CET.

The 26-year-old Portuguese midfielder Vieira was already loaned to the club from Arsenal in the previous season. This time he is joining the Bundesliga side permanently and has signed a long-term contract.

According to consistent media reports, the transfer fee is around nine million euros. The former Portuguese U21 international was valued at 35 million euros by English champions Arsenal when he joined in summer 2022. After his strong Bundesliga season, Vieira initially had to return to London. The English club had hoped during the summer to sell him for more money. On deadline day, Hamburg SV finally received the green light.

Hamburg SV board member Krüger: "Anything but self-evident"

Kathleen Krüger, the club's sports board member, stated that this was anything but self-evident and represented a strong signal for their development regarding Vieira's signing.

Vieira noted in a statement that he had sensed how much effort Hamburg SV had made for him. He added that he is back now and can hardly wait to get started again.

World Cup participant El Ouahdi to strengthen the wing

One of his new teammates is Moroccan international El Ouahdi, who also participated in the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada this summer for Morocco. Sports director Claus Costa described the new signing as a very dynamic and offensively oriented full-back whose energy and courageous playing style fits perfectly with their tactical approach.

The 24-year-old comes from KRC Genk. According to media reports, a transfer fee of eight million euros is due, with the sum potentially increasing by a further two to three million euros through bonuses.

According to Bild, El Ouahdi has signed with Hamburg SV until 2031.