“Rapid could sell six to seven players in the winter”

It was planned with Coach Robert Klauss one “Squad optimization“ – i.e. the lending or selling of dissatisfied reservists or those Rapid players who no longer live up to the significantly increased expectations.

“We’ve come a long way there,” reveals Katzer – more on that later.

“For good money”

But what concerns the sports director more than expected is “how massively the market is currently reacting”.

Specifically? “We could sell six to seven players. Already in winter – and also for good money”explains Katzer in an interview with KURIER.

Interested in strong central defense

The 45-year-old cites the strong central defense as an example Abwehrchief Serge-Philippe Raux-Yaowho came on a free transfer, and a crowd favorite Nenad Cvetkovic. “But I don’t even start negotiating in the winter, We want to block that awaysays Katzer.

The other offers should also be blocked by summer. Only one of them opens the window slightly. As KURIER reported in mid-December, it’s about endurance runners Mamadou Sangare.

Internally, it is expected that the lively interest in the top purchase will be followed by concrete offers. And if these meet financial expectations, the 22-year-old could have one Trigger a rain of millions.

Katzer confirms that the potential – expensive by Rapid standards – Replacement provided became.

In any case, the Ivorian Mory Gbane from Vicente in Portugal, who was brought into play by a portal, would “certainly not” come.

Another new one possible

In addition, the profit from a Sangare transfer could also be converted into one new attacking midfielder be invested.

“Certainly not a sellout”

Katzer’s route for the transfer period that runs until February 6th: “There is definitely no sellout. And we definitely don’t want to become weaker overall.”

What is certain is that several departures prepared become. On loan, through a sale or free of charge.

Coach Klauß is not a fan of bloated squads. In addition, there should be paths to the top for them Young talent stay open.

Negotiations about many farewells

Who could say goodbye?

The autumn of Christoph Lang was disappointing for both sides, the wingers Thierry Gale and Ismail Seydi hardly got to play after their long breaks due to injuries. Roman Kerschbaum can – as in the summer – leave for free.

And there are conversations about one or the other surprising farewell.

Discussion with Oswald

However, it certainly won’t be given away Moritz Oswalddespite criticism from his advisor in the KURIER.

Katzer: “I made it clear to Momo that we would continue to rely on him and that he should stay.”

Many conversations will follow. Katzer is ready for four wild weeks: “It’s going to be intense.”

And that Transfer summer 2025? “It’s going to get even more intense, I already know that.”