Homegrown defender Mertcan Ayhan signs new long-term contract
FC Schalke 04 have extended Gelsenkirchen-born defender Mertcan Ayhan’s contract until 30th June 2030, securing the long-term future of another player developed in the club’s academy, the Knappenschmiede. The 19-year-old’s new deal does not include a release clause, further underlining the club’s commitment to continuity in their squad planning and to developing players from the Knappenschmiede.