HERTHA Berlin today confirmed that Celtic centre half Dedryck Boyata will join them at the end of the season.

The Belgian internationalist is out-of-contract in the summer and had not been expected to remain in Glasgow.

The 28-year-old, who has not played since March 31 due to injury, will play for the Bundesliga club in Germany next term.

The defender, who was signed from Manchester City for £1.5 million in 2015, won four Scottish titles, two League Cups and two Scottish Cups during his four years in this country.

Hertha general manager Michael Preetz said: "We've had Dedryck in our sights for some time and are fully convinced of his qualities. We are confident that he is a real reinforcement for our defence."

Boyata said: "The club is ambitious and has goals that I stand by and I was very impressed by how Michael Preetz tried to talk to me and showed me a clear plan."