Rotterdam‑doelwit triggers clause, Feyenoord lands long‑term keeper

Feyenoord Rotterdam‑doelwit has moved to fill the looming vacancy left by captain Timon Wellenreuther, whose contract will not be renewed, by activating the purchase clause for 23‑year‑old Duitse goalkeeper Tjark Ernst. The German keeper is set to become the new first choice in De Kuip.

Transfermarkt reported that the Rotterdammers have triggered the buy‑out option in Ernst’s contract with Hertha BSC. The two clubs are now ironing out the final details, mainly bonuses and a future sell‑on percentage.

Ernst has confirmed his desire to join Feyenoord Rotterdam, and the personal terms appear to pose no obstacle. His willingness aligns with the club’s need for a long‑term solution between the posts.

The 23‑year‑old Duitser joined the Berlijnse side Hertha BSC in the summer of 2022 after VfL Bochum paid a modest €300,000. In his second season he became the first‑choice keeper, amassing 97 appearances for the club. Standing at 1.93 m, his contract runs until next summer.

Feyenoord announced that Timon Wellenreuther’s contract will not be extended, ending his spell as captain of the team. Following the announcement, Wellenreuther has opted to leave, with his next destination still undecided.

Ernst will replace Wellenreuther as the new first goalkeeper in De Kuip. The transfer provides Feyenoord Rotterdam with a long‑term option, while Hertha BSC loses a key player after nearly one hundred matches.

Both clubs expect the deal to meet their strategic objectives, and they aim to finalise the agreement swiftly. Remaining hurdles centre on the agreed bonuses and the percentage of any future transfer fee.