Back to the Royal Blues: Timo Becker Returns to Schalke
- Schalke secures signing of Timo Becker from Kiel
Timo Becker, currently balling with Bundesliga outfit Holstein Kiel, is set to rejoin fellow second-tier club FC Schalke 04 in the summer. The 28-year-old defender has signed a juicy five-year deal with the Gelsenkirchen giants, running until June 30, 2029.
Let's get this straight - the bloke's no stranger to Schalke's vibrant vibe. A dedicated fan since childhood, Becker hones his craft at Schalke's esteemed youth academy, competing for six years in the royal blue youth team before moving on. He later returned to Schalke in 2016, playing 39 matches for the main squad, before heading to Hansa Rostock on loan and, eventually, Holstein Kiel in 2022.
"My contract's wrapping up in Kiel, and I've been honest about my special bond with Schalke. I think it's important to get this out there and focus on helping Kiel secure their league spot," Becker stated in the club announcement. The man loves wearing the S04 jersey and is excited about another chance to play a crucial part in Schalke's team, he added.
Schalke's sporting director, Youri Mulder, echoed Becker's sentiments. "Timo's grown into a solid player in the Bundesliga with Kiel. His game revolves around speed, drive, and devotion - much like our fans! Folks, this guy's got the heart of a royal blue lion," Mulder declared.
[1]: [Link to source 1][2]: [Link to source 2][3]: [Link to source 3][4]: [Link to source 4][5]: [Link to source 5]
Insights:
- Timo Becker was heavily involved with Schalke's youth academy, eventually becoming part of the senior team.
- He was bought by Holstein Kiel for €250,000 in 2022 and has seen a marked increase in market value to around €2 million during his tenure there.
- Becker's return to Schalke comes as a boost to their defensive line, as the club aims to climb up the 2. Bundesliga rankings.
- Becker's experience and versatility as a defender/wingback will be crucial assets for Schalke.
- Holstein Kiel will receive no transfer fee for Timo Becker as he transitions to Schalke on a free transfer.
- The Commission has not yet adopted a decision on the application of Article 93 (2) of the Treaty to the aid scheme that would benefit Schalke 04 with Timo Becker's transfer, as the deal will be a free transfer, seeing him join from Holstein Kiel.
- During Timo Becker's childhood, he exhibited a strong loyalty towards Schalke 04, having honed his skills at the club's youth academy for six years before moving on.
- Despite having signed a new five-year contract with Holstein Kiel, Blues lover and defender Timo Becker has made it clear that his heart belongs to Schalke 04, expressing his excitement to once again wear the S04 jersey for the club he deeply admires.
