Freiburg eye reunion with midfielder Engelhardt amid Manzambi speculation
SC Freiburg are interested in re-signing midfielder Yannick Engelhardt from Como 1907 this summer, according to Sky Germany. The 25-year-old German is currently on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach, but the Rhineland club holds no purchase option and faces financial constraints that may prevent a permanent deal. This opens a potential pathway for Freiburg to secure the player, who is seen as a potential preparatory move for the anticipated departure of their prized asset, Johan Manzambi.
Manzambi, the Swiss international, has attracted significant interest from top European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain, Bayer Leverkusen, and Napoli. Reports suggest a fee in the region of €60 million could be involved in his potential summer exit. Engelhardt is therefore viewed within the club, according to sources, as a possible squad reinforcement to help offset the potential loss of the young talent.
Yannick Engelhardt is no stranger to Freiburg, having spent two years with the club between 2021 and 2023, though he was primarily featured in the reserve team during that spell. Since joining Gladbach on loan, he has established himself as a regular in the Bundesliga, largely operating as a holding midfielder. This season, he has made 27 top-flight appearances, contributing two goals and two assists for the Foals.
The move would represent a logical step for both parties. For Engelhardt, it offers a return to a familiar environment with a clearer path to first-team football, especially given Gladbach's inability to secure him permanently. For Freiburg, it provides a cost-effective and proven Bundesliga option to bolster their midfield ranks ahead of a potentially transformative transfer window centered on Manzambi's future. The deal's structure remains unclear, but it is expected to be a permanent transfer or another loan with an obligation to buy.
