Feyenoord's keeper hunt gains momentum as Wolfsburg door closes

Feyenoord are looking to plug a void between the posts after their recent departure, and the 23‑year‑old German keeper Tjark Ernst emerges as a prime candidate. Ernst, currently tied to Hertha BSC until 2027 with a €5 million release clause, has attracted interest from several clubs.

Feyenoord have already tabled an offer that meets the €5 million clause, signalling their intent to secure the German's services. The Rotterdam side have assured Ernst that he would become the club’s first‑choice goalkeeper if the deal materialises.

VfL Wolfsburg, the relegated Bundesliga side, were also in contention, but Ernst turned down a move to the German club. Besides Wolfsburg, SC Freiburg, Hamburger SV, FC Augsburg and Celtic have all placed the keeper on their radar.

Consequently, Ernst will not join Wolfsburg this summer, leaving the Dutch giants with a clearer path to the signing. The rejection also underscores the appeal of Feyenoord’s project.

Ernst’s contract with Hertha BSC runs until 2027, and the €5 million release clause can be triggered by any club willing to meet it. This clause makes the transfer financially straightforward for interested parties.

Feyenoord must still negotiate personal terms with the goalkeeper and convince him to choose Rotterdam over other suitors. If an agreement is reached promptly, the transfer could be completed before the summer window closes.

German media reported that Ernst himself rejected the Wolfsburg move, confirming the player's preference to stay in the Bundesliga or consider other options. Earlier, the outlet Fr12.nl disclosed that Feyenoord had already submitted a formal bid for the goalkeeper.

The upcoming weeks will determine whether the Rotterdam club can finalise the deal before the transfer deadline, potentially securing their new first‑choice keeper for the forthcoming season.