Matija Nastasic Transfer Clause Activated by Schalke: Latest Details, Reaction

Schalke have taken up their option to buy Manchester City defender Matija Nastasic, turning his season-long loan agreement into a permanent deal.

The German club announced Nastasic's full-time switch on Wednesday:

Nastasic was part of the Schalke team who beat Real Madrid 4-3 at the Bernabeu on Tuesday. It was an extremely impressive result, despite the Gelsenkirchen club exiting the Champions League with a 5-4 aggregate defeat.

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Schalke boss Roberto Di Matteo took a chance on Nastasic in January, offering him consistent playing time after he struggled to break into Manuel Pellegrini's City side. The 21-year-old has slotted in well, offering assurance and reliability at the back. He has the potential to become one of the world's top defenders, but he needs first-term football to continue his development.

Sky Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio previously suggested the Serbian arrived in Germany with a €12 million option to buy. This has now been exercised, providing Di Matteo with another excellent young talent to shape his side around.

The performances of Max Meyer, Leon Goretzka and Leroy Sane highlighted Schalke's impressive next-generation of stars against Madrid. Nastasic fits right in and can make huge steps with greater responsibility at the club.