TSG Hoffenheim are nearing an agreement to sign Kodai Sano from NEC Nijmegen, according to reports in the Dutch press. Following a previous bid of €15 million rejected last month, De Telegraaf reports that Hoffenheim have submitted a “serious” offer that is expected to be accepted, making the transfer imminent.
The 22-year-old Japanese midfielder has been a key figure for NEC Nijmegen, and the Eredivisie club had reportedly valued him at €20 million. While the exact fee of Hoffenheim’s latest bid remains undisclosed, it appears to have met Nijmegen’s demands. Sano is the younger brother of Mainz and Japan international, Kaishu Sano, and has been attracting attention from other Bundesliga clubs, including VfB Stuttgart.
Hoffenheim have been active in the transfer market this summer, already securing the services of Mats Rots, Patrick Wimmer, Cajetan Lenz, Alessandro Vogt, and Sean Dulic. The potential arrival of Sano could further strengthen their midfield options. The club’s financial position has been bolstered by the anticipated sale of Bazoumana Touré to Newcastle United for a reported €50 million, which likely facilitated the increased offer for the NEC Nijmegen player.
Sano established himself as a regular starter for NEC Nijmegen last season, contributing goals and assists from midfield. His ability to both create and score makes him an attractive prospect for Hoffenheim manager Pellegrino Matarazzo, who is building a young and dynamic squad. The transfer will provide Sano with the opportunity to test himself in one of Europe’s top five leagues, and potentially enhance his international prospects with Japan. The addition of Sano will likely see Hoffenheim continue their focus on developing young talent within the Bundesliga.
