Berlin, Jan 27 (IANS): Cologne have signed footballer Neven Subotic from league rivals Borussia Dortmund on loan, both Bundesliga clubs confirmed in an official statement.

The 28-year-old centre back, who received jersey number two, put pen to paper on a loan deal until the end of the season on Thursday, reports Xinhua news agency.

"We are all looking forward to Neven's time with us. His years at Dortmund were characterized by outstanding successes as he played a decisive role in the title victories. We are convinced that Neven Subotic will be an important player for our team in the coming half year," Cologne coach Peter Stoeger said.

Subotic started his professional career at Mainz before he joined Borussia Dortmund in 2008 to become a key player, who provided 15 goals in 192 appearances.

"I am full of gratitude for fantastic years at Dortmund. As an ambitious professional my focus lies from now on Cologne," Subotic said.

Cologne's new arrival spent the last months at Dortmund's sidelines as he lost his position due to persistent injuries.