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Medhi Benatia joy at Bayern move

Medhi Benatia is delighted about his impending transfer to Bayern Munich, which is set to be completed within the next couple of days.

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Roma and Bayern Munich reached an agreement over the transfer of centre-back Benatia on Tuesday, and he is set to sign a five-year-deal after passing his medical.

According to media reports, Bayern will pay 26 million euros plus an additional four million as bonuses for the 27-year-old, who emerged as one of the best centre-backs in Serie A during his first year at Roma last season.

"I am delighted that the transfer to Bayern finally has come off," Benatia told German sports network Sport1 on Wednesday. "It took its time and in between I thought the deal might fall through."

Bayern Munich, who had ended all transfer activities for the summer, were forced into the transfer market following Javi Martinez's serious knee injury in the German Super Cup final in mid-August.

"Mister Guardiola wanted me by all means," Benatia said. "I am looking forward to working with him. He is a strong coach.

"There are many great players at Bayern. It's an excellent squad. It's a dream to be part of it from now on.

"I had a great time in Rome, but I am now looking forward to a new chapter in my life."