Werder Bremen target Fortuna Düsseldorf captain Kastenmeier
Werder Bremen have identified Fortuna Düsseldorf captain and goalkeeper Florian Kastenmeier as a summer transfer target, according to a report from DeichStube. The 28-year-old's contract with the 2.Bundesliga club is set to expire at the end of June, meaning he would be available on a free transfer should he decide against renewing with his current side.
Kastenmeier has been Fortuna Düsseldorf's first-choice goalkeeper for several seasons and has worn the captain's armband. However, his team has struggled defensively this campaign, sitting 17th in the second division, with the goalkeeper managing only four clean sheets in 28 league appearances. His potential move would represent a step up to the Bundesliga, but he would be expected to serve as a backup option at the Weserstadion.
The report indicates that Kastenmeier would be brought in to provide experienced cover, as Werder Bremen's current goalkeeping situation is in flux. Of the club's present duo, 22-year-old Mio Backhaus has reportedly attracted interest from clubs including Brighton & Hove Albion and AC Milan, while Karl Hein is also part of the squad. At least one of the two is expected to remain, but Bremen are seeking to bolster their options ahead of the new season.
For Kastenmeier, a native of Regensburg, the move offers a chance to compete in the top flight after spending his entire professional career in the second tier with Fortuna Düsseldorf. For Werder Bremen, securing an experienced, homegrown goalkeeper on a free transfer aligns with a pragmatic approach to squad building, adding depth and leadership without a transfer fee. The coming weeks will be decisive as the player evaluates his options ahead of his contract expiry.
