Sky Germany reporters Florian Plettenberg and Dennis Bayer report that SC Paderborn are set to complete the signing of highly-rated TSG Hoffenheim attacking prospect Deniz Zeitler. The newly-promoted Bundesliga club have moved decisively in negotiations for the 19-year-old after opening talks with Hoffenheim. Final details are now being completed ahead of the transfer.
Get German Football News reported on Paderborn’s interest in Zeitler last week, with Hoffenheim prepared to allow the Germany U20 international to leave if an acceptable offer arrived. Paderborn can offer Zeitler something he has yet to receive in Sinsheim: a clear pathway to regular Bundesliga football.
Deniz Zeitler set for Bundesliga opportunity
Zeitler established himself as one of the 3. Liga’s outstanding young attackers last season. The versatile forward scored 15 goals in 38 league appearances for Hoffenheim II while adding two assists. He can operate through the middle, behind a centre-forward or from the left. His performances also helped him progress into Germany’s U20 national-team setup.
Despite his prolific campaign, Zeitler has yet to establish himself with Hoffenheim’s senior side. Paderborn’s promotion to the Bundesliga therefore provides an opportunity to take the next step without leaving the German top flight. The move would conclude a relatively brief stay in Sinsheim.
Hoffenheim won dramatic race for Zeitler last summer
Zeitler only joined Hoffenheim from FC Ingolstadt last year following an unusual transfer saga involving VfB Stuttgart. Kicker initially reported that Stuttgart had won the race for the then-18-year-old. Florian Plettenberg and Sport Bild subsequently contradicted that information and indicated that Hoffenheim were instead poised to secure his signature.
GGFN covered the dramatic reversal at the time. Hoffenheim ultimately signed Zeitler for a reported fee of approximately €1m. He arrived after registering eight goals and five assists during his final 3. Liga campaign with Ingolstadt.
One year later, his value and reputation have risen considerably following another prolific third-tier season. Paderborn now appear poised to give Zeitler the Bundesliga opportunity Hoffenheim originally hoped he would eventually earn in Sinsheim.
