Winter Transfer Window Update: New Signings and Loan Terminations Shake Up German Football Clubs

During the ongoing 2026 winter transfer window, several German football clubs made notable player moves that are set to impact the remainder of the season.

Preußen Münster has strengthened their attacking options by signing two forwards, Shin Yamada and Imad Rondic, both on loan to aid the club's fight against relegation. Yamada, 25, joins from Celtic Glasgow and despite not scoring this season in eight appearances, he brings prior success with 27 goals in 86 J1 League matches in Japan. Rondic, 26, on loan from 1. FC Köln and also yet to score this season, offers physical presence in the attack. Preußen's sport director Jan Uphues expressed confidence that Yamada’s agility and Rondic’s strength will bolster the squad, particularly in the upcoming away match against Nürnberg.

Meanwhile, 1. FC Nürnberg is ending an underwhelming loan spell early for 18-year-old striker Artem Stepanov from Bayer Leverkusen. After 13 league appearances with only one goal contribution and exclusion from recent matches, coach Miroslav Klose and Stepanov agreed on an early termination of the loan. Stepanov will return to Leverkusen, potentially to be loaned elsewhere.

Union Berlin’s midfield and defensive lines face changes as well. Midfielder Alex Kral is poised to transfer to Panathinaikos Athens for about €1 million after limited playtime, with only one start in ten Bundesliga matches. Defenders Danilho Doekhi and Diogo Leite, both with contracts expiring in summer, continue to train but are linked with moves to Premier League clubs Leeds United and Aston Villa respectively. Injuries have affected the squad, though Tim Skarke has returned to training, improving Union's options.

Lastly, Hansa Rostock rejected a €3 million bid from Glasgow Rangers for their forward Ryan Naderi, who has scored eight goals in 17 matches this season. The club is reluctant to sell without a replacement, though the transfer deadline's proximity could prompt further developments. Naderi receives career guidance from teammate Andreas Voglsammer, who emphasized the financial benefits of strong performance.

These developments illustrate active maneuvering by German clubs seeking to optimize their squads as the transfer window closes, impacting team dynamics and competitive prospects across leagues.