Engelhardt returns to SC Freiburg – club smashes transfer spending record again

SC Freiburg have completed the return of Yannik Engelhardt. The 25-year-old defensive midfielder arrives from Como 1907, signing a long-term deal with the Breisgau side. The club has smashed its own transfer spending record: 36 million euros spent so far this summer, placing Freiburg fourth behind Bayern, Hoffenheim and Bayer Leverkusen in this Bundesliga season’s spending charts.

What happened?

Negotiations between Freiburg and Como 1907 were finalized on Saturday morning. The SC did not disclose contract details or the exact transfer fee. According to „Sky“, Freiburg paid 7 million euros to Como, which had signed Engelhardt for 8 million euros from Fortuna Düsseldorf in summer 2024. The midfielder spent last season on loan at Borussia Mönchengladbach before returning to Freiburg.

Engelhardt is the fourth new signing after Mio Backhaus, Keisuke Goto and Rihito Yamamoto. Total outlay now stands at 36 million euros – a new club record. Last season’s previous high was 32.7 million euros. Freiburg currently sit 7th in the Bundesliga with zero goals scored, zero conceded and zero points.

Why this matters for SC Freiburg

Engelhardt is set to replace Johan Manzambi, whose move to Aston Villa for a reported 60 million euros plus bonuses left a major gap in Freiburg’s attack. The Swiss forward was one of the most sought-after offensive players in the league. Engelhardt, however, offers more defensive solidity. Sporting director Klemens Hartenbach said: „Yannik stood out strongly during his first spell here. He reads the game well and is technically gifted.“

The 25-year-old spent 2021–2023 on loan in Freiburg’s U23, making 54 appearances in the 3. Liga and contributing eight goals. He never featured for the first team before joining Fortuna Düsseldorf for 900,000 euros. From there, Como paid 3.8 million euros to secure his services.

What’s next?

Engelhardt was clear about his excitement: „The connection to SC never broke – not with players, not with the staff. It feels great to be back.“ Club ambitions remain high, and the new signing is eager to hit the ground running. His competitive debut could come on 20 February 2027 against FC Schalke 04, when Freiburg will be 16th in the table.