Tim Skarke joins FC Schalke 04 on loan from Union Berlin

“We’ve worked very hard to sign Tim over the past few weeks, he’s our ideal winger,” explained Peter Knäbel, board member for sport. “A door opened again over the last 48 hours and I’m pleased that we were able to take advantage of this opportunity to bring him here. We’ve followed Tim’s progress for a long time and believe he will help the team with his athleticism and runs in behind.”

“Tim’s pace and ability on the ball is just what I want for my style of play,” commented head coach Thomas Reis. “He’s got both technical quality and a strong personality, which is important during a fight for survival. I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Skarke is desperate to take the chance his move to Gelsenkirchen will offer him. “The conversations I had with the coach and club bosses helped reaffirm that this move to Schalke 04 is the right one for me. I can’t wait to put the teams above us under pressure and to ultimately try and avoid relegation with the team.”

Skarke joined Union Berlin last summer after impressive performances for SV Darmstadt 98 in the second division. He played six times in all competitions for the Berliners this season. The 26-year-old began his career at 1. FC Heidenheim. Overall, the former Germany U21 international has featured 138 times in the 2. Bundesliga and has been directly involved in 27 goals.