Mainz set sights on record €60m fee for defensive midfielder

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·8. April 2026

Mainz set sights on record €60m fee for defensive midfielder

Kaishu Sano has impressed in the Bundesliga since joining Mainz from Kashima Antlers for a reported €2.5 million in the summer of 2024.

According to Sport Bild, Die Nullfünfer have high hopes for the fee they could generate by selling the 25-year-old, who is described as one of the most sought-after defensive midfielders in Europe by the German sports magazine.

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The report claims Mainz sporting director Christian Heidel is targeting a sale of up to €60 million – a figure that would smash the club’s current transfer record, previously set when Brajan Gruda was sold to Brighton & Hove Albion for €31.5 million.

Sano, who has featured in all 40 of Mainz’s games across all competitions this season, is under contract until 2028.