David Bates has signed a four year contract with SV Hamburg.
The highly rated Sevco starlet is out of contract at the end of the season and opted to join the Bundesliga outfit.
Bates’ decision is a huge slap in the face for Graeme Murty who has constantly talked up the prospects of getting the defender to sign a new contract.
Done Deal! ????
Our first new signing for next season is secured! @DavidBates_ will join the Rothosen from @RangersFC on a four year contract. #nurderHSV pic.twitter.com/lRqWEctwtO
— HSV English (@HSV_English) April 12, 2018
Mark Warburton signed Bates from Raith Rovers in 2016 after a successful loan spell but it wasn’t until Pedro Caixinha arrived that he made the breakthrough into the first team.
Now after just 23 appearances the 21-year-old is walking away with Sevco picking up a paltry development fee alongside Raith Rovers.
Although he was a signed player for the Kirkcaldy club Bates made more appearances out on loan at Brechin City and East Stirlingshire.
It’s understood that his current basic wage of around £1,250/week has had an extra zero added on.
Bruno Alves is expected to partner Young McCrorie against Celtic on Sunday at Hampden.