Brentford seal Schade loan from Freiburg ahead of expected club-record switch

Brentford have completed the signing of Germany Under-21 international Kevin Schade on an initial loan from Freiburg.

The pacy attacker will join up with the Premier League side, subject to international clearance, until the end of the season, though Brentford confirmed they then “expect to make the deal permanent for a club-record undisclosed fee”, with reports suggesting that could be in the region of £22million (€25m).

Schade made his Freiburg debut in August 2021 and scored seven goals in 36 games for the Bundesliga club.

Speaking to the club’s website after the announcement of the 21-year-old’s arrival, Bees coach Thomas Frank said: “I think Kevin is a typical Brentford signing. He is a young, promising talent that we see a big potential in. We have been following him for a while and we think he will suit our style of play.

A message from our new man, @kevinschade_#SchadeSigns pic.twitter.com/OwJoWSDpqw

— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) January 4, 2023

“He can play anywhere across our front three positions. He could play for us on either wing or as the central striker. He has great pace and is very promising in the way he runs behind defences.

“He is very good aerially, in both boxes, and can develop even more to be a real threat as an offensive option with his head.

“We like the way he presses when the team do not have the ball. He is willing to work very hard for his team. We see him as a player that could have a big potential to be a fine goalscorer and it is great to have him at Brentford. Our coaching staff are looking forward to working with him.”

Brentford are enjoying another fruitful season in the Premier League, sitting ninth in the table after their 3-1 win against Liverpool on Monday.