Daniel Hanslik has completed a move to VfL Bochum after his contract with 1. FC Kaiserslautern expired, the Bundesliga club confirmed on Friday.
The 29-year-old forward joins Bochum on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract that will keep him at the Ruhrstadion until 2028.
Hanslik arrived at Kaiserslautern from Hansa Rostock in 2020 and quickly established himself as a key player for the Red Devils, becoming a firm favourite with the club’s supporters over the past four seasons. He played a vital role in securing the club’s survival in the 2021 and 2024 campaigns, and was also part of the team that achieved promotion to the 2. Bundesliga in 2022.
During his time with Kaiserslautern, Hanslik made a total of 184 appearances across all competitions, scoring 34 goals and providing 28 assists. He was given a heartfelt farewell at his final home match against Bielefeld three weeks ago, where he had the honour of captaining the side.
Bochum finished ninth in the 2. Bundesliga last season, and director of football Simon Zoller believes Hanslik will bring valuable qualities to the team. “With Daniel, we’re getting an absolute leader who was vice-captain in Kaiserslautern and whose qualities we are fully convinced of, both on and off the pitch,” Zoller stated. “His versatility allows him to add a new dimension to our game, whether as a striker, a second striker, or in the number 9.5 role.”
The move provides Hanslik with the opportunity to test himself in the Bundesliga, while Bochum add a proven goalscorer and experienced leader to their squad as they prepare for the upcoming season. This transfer bolsters Bochum’s attacking options and provides tactical flexibility for head coach Heiko Herrlich.
