SC Freiburg have confirmed the permanent signing of Japanese forward Keisuke Goto from Anderlecht, the Bundesliga club announced on Thursday. The 21-year-old joins Freiburg ahead of representing Japan at the upcoming World Cup. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed.
Goto arrives at the Europa-Park Stadion after a successful loan spell with Sint-Truiden in the Belgian Pro League during the 2025/26 season. He scored 13 goals and registered eight assists in 40 appearances for Sint-Truiden, demonstrating his potential as a dynamic attacking threat. Prior to the loan, he was with Anderlecht, but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter.
Freiburg board member Jochen Saier expressed the club’s enthusiasm for the signing, stating that Goto is “an exciting player with a number of promising attributes.” Saier highlighted the forward’s willingness to run in behind defenders, his spatial awareness, and his ability to operate effectively within the penalty area. He also acknowledged that Goto will require time to adapt to his new surroundings and continue his development, assuring him that the club will provide the necessary support.
Goto himself stated that Freiburg had shown a strong interest in him for several months, and that the club’s desire to secure his services was a key factor in his decision. He also revealed that he had been impressed by Freiburg’s performances in the Europa League, describing them as a “big club” and expressing his excitement for the upcoming season. The player’s comments suggest he is eager to contribute to the team’s ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.
Freiburg are currently enjoying a strong season in the Bundesliga, challenging for European qualification. The addition of Goto provides coach Christian Streich with another attacking option, bolstering the squad’s depth and versatility. The move could potentially provide a long-term solution in attack as Freiburg look to build on their recent success.
