Paderborn interested in acquiring Hoffenheim II attacking star Deniz Zeitler | OneFootball

SC Paderborn have opened talks with TSG Hoffenheim over a potential move for highly rated attacking prospect Deniz Zeitler. Sky Germany reports that the newly promoted Bundesliga club are already in contact with Hoffenheim regarding the 19-year-old. The Kraichgau club would reportedly be prepared to allow Zeitler to leave if an appropriate offer arrives.

It remains unclear as to whether Paderborn are pursuing a permanent transfer or a loan. Paderborn and Hoffenheim have nevertheless already conducted significant business this summer. Die Ostwestfalen signed midfielder Luka Đurić permanently from TSG and subsequently acquired goalkeeper Nahuel Noll on loan.

Deniz Zeitler attracts interest after prolific Hoffenheim season

Zeitler established himself as one of the 3. Liga’s most productive young attackers last season. The versatile forward scored 15 goals in 38 league appearances for Hoffenheim II, making a strong impression during his first campaign in Sinsheim.

The Ingolstadt native can operate through the middle, behind a striker, or from the left. His goalscoring record and positional flexibility have now attracted Paderborn’s attention as the promoted club continue strengthening their squad for the Bundesliga.

Zeitler has also progressed into Germany’s under-20 national team. Despite his success at reserve level, he has yet to establish himself with Hoffenheim’s senior side, leaving the club with a decision over whether to retain, loan, or sell him.

The 19-year-old only joined Hoffenheim last summer following a dramatic transfer race. Kicker initially reported that Stuttgart had beaten their regional rivals to the former FC Ingolstadt attacker.

Further reports from Florian Plettenberg and Sport Bild subsequently indicated that Zeitler was instead expected to sign for Hoffenheim. TSG ultimately completed the transfer for a reported fee of approximately €1m.

Zeitler had already emerged as one of the brightest young players in the 3. Liga during his final Ingolstadt season. He contributed eight goals and five assists while still eligible for youth football, prompting interest from several Bundesliga clubs.

Paderborn can offer the youngster an immediate Bundesliga pathway and have already demonstrated their willingness to recruit from Hoffenheim’s development structure. 

GGFN | Peter Weis