Berlin – Bundesliga reigning champions Bayer Leverkusen bolstered their defensive lineup on Friday by securing Mario Hermoso on a loan agreement from Roma for the remainder of the season.

The 29-year-old central defender joined Roma last September after spending five seasons with Atletico Madrid. Hermoso is also a former international player for Spain.

Leverkusen’s sporting managing director, Simon Rolfes, commented in a club announcement that “Mario Hermoso brings a wealth of international experience. Besides his role as a central defender, he is also a skilled and disciplined left back.” He went on to mention that Hermoso would add valuable versatility to the team’s defense and serve as a solid replacement in light of the absence of Jeanuel Belocian.

While the club did not disclose whether there is an option to convert the loan into a permanent deal after the season’s conclusion, their swift recruitment highlights their commitment to strengthening their squad.

Currently sitting in second place, Leverkusen trails Bayern Munich by six points ahead of their home match this Sunday against Hoffenheim. Earlier this week, the team also added Argentine midfielder Emiliano Buendia on a loan from Aston Villa to cover for injured player Martin Terrier.

Coach Xabi Alonso revealed on Wednesday that Nigerian striker Victor Boniface is expected to remain with the team despite rumors linking him to a significant transfer to clubs in Saudi Arabia.