FC Schalke 04 sign Sebastian Polter

“We’ve been able to secure a strong centre-forward, who has good pace for his height and is really physical,” said sporting director Rouven Schröder. “He knows the Bundesliga and he knows what it takes to be successful. He has played over 350 games in professional football and we want him to lead from the front next season whilst using all his experience.”

Head coach Frank Kramer is impressed with Polter’s qualities: “Sebastian showed last season how valuable he can be for a Bundesliga team. He works extremely hard for the team up front and his power will improve our attacking play.”

“I’m really pleased to have made this move. Schalke are a massive club and belong in the Bundesliga. I want to play my part in avoiding relegation this season. I will give my very best from my first day here,” said Polter.

The right-footed attacker spent time in SV Werder Bremen, Eintracht Braunschweig and VfL Wolfsburg’s academies. The former Germany youth international (U18, U20 and U21) then made the step up to senior football with the Wolves. Overall, he has played 97 times in the Bundesliga, plus 88 games in the second division. On top of that, Polter played 51 games in the Championship in England and 32 matches in the Dutch Eredivisie. The tall striker featured 36 times in all competitions for VfL Bochum in 2021/22, scoring 11 goals and setting up three.