Second time lucky? HSV eye World Cup striker | OneFootball

Despite Patson Daka’s strong start, HSV still want to sign another striker this summer. In doing so, they have turned their attention to a name that was already on the Rothosen’s shortlist last winter.

As reported by the portal footballAsian, HSV have renewed their interest in Kento Shiogai. According to the report, a move could become a real topic in particular if the 21-year-old’s contract does indeed contain a relegation release clause. Following VfL Wolfsburg’s surprising relegation from the Bundesliga, such a clause would allow Shiogai to leave the club for a relatively manageable fee. However, neither the existence nor the exact terms of such a clause have been confirmed.

What is certain, however, is that the Hamburg club had already looked into the forward back in January. At the time, Shiogai was still under contract with Dutch top-flight side NEC Nijmegen. A transfer did not materialize, though. Instead, VfL Wolfsburg activated a release clause in the region of nine to ten million euros and brought the Japanese attacker to the Bundesliga.

However, he has not been able to establish himself on a lasting basis there in recent months. Across all competitions, Shiogai made twelve appearances and scored just one goal. Even so, the World Cup participant is still regarded as a highly talented striker with significant room for development.

Photo: IMAGO

Are BVB also pursuing HSV target Shiogai?

His profile in particular is likely to appeal to HSV. Just like recently signed Patson Daka, Shiogai offers pace, runs in behind, and a high work rate out of possession. In addition, the youngster can be deployed both as a centre-forward and on the attacking wings.

That would make him a perfect fit for the profile the Hanseatic club are looking for following the departure of Ransford Königsdörffer. On top of that, winter loanee Damion Downs and Robert Glatzel are two more forwards who have left the club.

However, HSV are far from alone in the race. Feyenoord Rotterdam and even Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with Shiogai. At the moment, though, it is difficult to judge how serious those rumors really are.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.