Dortmund, May 25 (IANS): Bayer Leverkusen footballer Gonzalo Castro has moved to Bundesliga rivals Borussia Dortmund.

The 27-year-old has been linked with Dortmund for weeks, yet both clubs confirmed the transfer on Sunday as Castro penned a four-year deal with the 'BVB' after 10 years at Leverkusen, reports Xinhua.

"We are delighted that we were able to sign Gonzalo Castro. He is an experienced and technically skilled midfielder, who can play in different positions," Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc said.

The German international, who made five caps for Germany, made overall 286 Bundesliga appearances, provided 57 assists and scored 25 goals. Castro had a contract with Leverkusen until 2016 but Dortmund made use of a release clause to sign the midfielder for the upcoming season.

"I wanted to start something new, however, the decision wasn't easy. I had a fantastic time all the years at Leverkusen. The club will always be in my heart," Dortmund's new arrival said.

Dortmund completed the season in seventh place while Leverkusen finished fourth in the Bundesliga standings.