TSG Hoffenheim have submitted a €15 million offer for NEC Nijmegen midfielder Kodai Sano, though the Dutch club are expected to reject the bid, according to SoccerNews. The offer represents a significant profit for Nijmegen, who signed Sano from Japanese side Fagiano Okayama for a reported €450,000 in 2023.
NEC Nijmegen are reportedly seeking a fee closer to €20 million for the 22-year-old, indicating a firm valuation of the player’s potential. The Japanese international’s performances last season have attracted attention from multiple clubs, with VfB Stuttgart also previously linked with a move. Sano’s brother, Kaishu Sano, currently plays for Mainz in the Bundesliga, potentially offering a familiar face should Kodai make the switch to Germany.
Sano established himself as a key player for Nijmegen during the 2023-24 season, making 39 appearances across all competitions. During that time, he directly contributed to 11 goals, scoring three times and providing eight assists. His creative output from midfield proved vital for Nijmegen, who finished seventh in the Eredivisie.
Hoffenheim are looking to bolster their midfield options ahead of the upcoming Bundesliga season. The club finished eleventh last season and will be hoping to climb the table with strategic additions to their squad. Sano’s arrival would add a dynamic element to Hoffenheim’s midfield, offering both creativity and a goal threat. The potential transfer could provide Sano with a platform to further develop his game in one of Europe’s top leagues.
