Union Berlin strikes again as Tunisian midfielder Aissa Bilal Laidouni joins the club

The third-placed Bundesliga side has reportedly paid Ferencvaros four-million Euros for the 26-year-old, who has been named "Tunisian Footballer of the Year" by state news agency "TAP".

"Aissa's qualities have been known to us for some time," said FCU manager Oliver Ruhnert. "His box-to-box play, intensity, and understanding of the game will help us further enhance our game."

Laidouni, who has 28 caps for the Tunisian national team, was also a target for clubs such as Olympique Marseille and Celtic. However, he chose Union Berlin for its "family-oriented" and "ambitious" culture.

"As a professional footballer, you want to compete at the highest level, preferably in one of the best football leagues in the world," said Laidouni. "That's why I'm really looking forward to proving my qualities now in the Bundesliga.

"From everything I've heard and seen so far, Union is a family-oriented club, but also an ambitious one. I'm convinced I'll fit in well here and will give everything to be successful with Union."

The signing of Laidouni may also signify the departure of Japanese forward Genki Haraguchi, as both players fulfil similar roles.

Laidouni, who can play as a six or eight, was a regular partner of Koln midfielder Ellyes Skhiri on the Tunisian national team during the recent World Cup, where he recorded an assist against France.