Transfer Project Reports

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With their victory at SC Paderborn, FC Schalke 04 gained some respite during the relegation battle from the 2nd Bundesliga last weekend. Düsseldorf and Elversberg complete the program for 14th place in the ranking before starting the winter break after a disappointing first series. While the search for a new sporting director is underway, the eighth most valuable team in the league could be worked on in preparation for the second half of the season. Reportedly, the initial focus is on downsizing.

As reported by “WAZ” and “Ruhr Nachrichten”, Ibrahima Cissé, Lino Tempelmann (both under contract until 2026) and Bryan Lasme (2027) no longer play any role in Schalke’s plans. Together, the trio made 15 appearances; the defects of Lasme and Cissé in terms of quality and mentality were too great, the newspaper “Bild” recently wrote. Sales are envisaged, loans are possible.

Reportedly, the latter also applies to central defenders Martin Wasinski and Steve Noode. Left winger Ilyes Hamache, who has only played 128 minutes in the league since arriving this summer and is under contract until 2028, could also be loaned out.

Felipe Sánchez is someone who, according to ‘Bild’, craves more playing time and would be anything but opposed to such a move. The central defender only has four league matches under his belt, but according to “WAZ”, the Royal Blues do not want to let the 20-year-old Argentine leave and believe in his potential. The second division side are ready to talk with goalkeeper Ron-Thorben Hoffmann if they want to make a change. The professional signed from Braunschweig lost the duel between the posts against Justin Heekeren, according to the “RN”, the number two status was not enough for the 25-year-old.

On the access side, Schalke focuses on defense and a new attacker. The requirements profile would have been defined in detail; according to “Kicker”, candidates must be experienced, stress-resistant and fluent in German. Attributes that should come in handy in the short term goal of saying goodbye to the relegation battle and progressing towards a secure midfield. Promising young talents like those seen recently this summer are less highlighted.

“We are discussing it internally with Ben Manga, Youri Mulder is also there. We discuss how we see the team and what is available, what is possible. We have our wishes on how to add quality. (…) I will not put this openly on the table, but if possible, we will make the right choice to strengthen ourselves,” said coach Kees van Wonderen in view of the winter transfers.