Commenting on his move to Germany, Degen said: “I’m looking forward to the challenge and the wonderful VfB fans.

“I really want to make use of my chance. It’s fantastic to be working together with Christian Gross again. I had a very successful time with him in Basel.”

Stuttgart boss Gross, once manager of Tottenham, said: “I know Philipp very well and rate him highly both as a football player and as a person.

“He is a very athletic and fast player, who often looks to push forward. Philipp wants to take his chance at VfB.”