Mainz sign Fabian Frei from Basel to 4-year contract

The engine of FC Basel's midfield is departing St. Jakob-Park, as FSV Mainz 05 signed Fabian Frei to a four-year deal on Tuesday.

Frei arrives at Mainz with a wealth of experience in European competition, having made 23 Champions League appearances and 24 Europa League appearances for Basel.

"I am happy that the transfer went so smoothly and I'm really looking forward to the new challenge of being able to play in the Bundesliga every weekend," Frei said. "For me that's like playing in the Champions League every weekend. Mainz 05 tried very hard to get me - their manner impressed me, the way the executives spoke with me and how the club presented itself to me."

Assuming that Frei plays alongside Julian Baumgartlinger, Mainz are set to enter the next season with one of the most impressive midfield duos in the Bundesliga.