Fiorentina officially sign Blaszczykowski from Borussia Dortmund

After reporting Fiorentina interest only earlier today, Jakub Blaszczykowski has signed for the Tuscan giants after a short negotiation with Borussia Dortmund. The Polish international comes to Florence on loan (fee of about €1 million) with the option to buy set at €6 million.

Jakub Blaszczykowski wechselt auf Leihbasis zum AC Florenz http://t.co/4gZSkUvzeU pic.twitter.com/5F2uaZv3Qi

— Borussia Dortmund (@BVB) August 31, 2015

"Kuba" leaves Dortmund after 8 seasons with the German club, winning the Bundesliga title twice and the German cup once. He notched 197 appearances and 27 goals for Der BVB.

Blaszczykowski undoubtedly arrives as a replacement right winger, with Joaquin leaving before the end of the transfer window in a couple hours. Kuba is a more robust - if less tricky - option on the right; if he can stay fit, he will add a quick attacking option and crosses to a Fiorentina side badly in need of both pace and width. Regardless of the nightmare sequence of events and planning shortfalls that led the Viola to mess they were in, such a last-minute signing is a small coup by Prade and company.

Beyond Kuba's technical gifts, I am personally excited to see an unquestioned professional, a "winner," and a combative veteran added to the Fiorentina roster. His ability to play in several different roles along the right hand side gives Paulo Sousa more tactical flexibility as well.

Oh, and his shot can be a bit special.

Let us be the first to say welcome Kuba, and forza viola!