Bundesliga Transfer Window: Key Moves on Day Two

The January 2026 Bundesliga transfer window has proven to be particularly eventful, particularly on its second day. German Football News is pleased to provide an overview of some noteworthy transactions that may have gone under the radar. Clubs in the top German division, including Heidenheim, Hoffenheim, and Freiburg, have all made strategic personnel changes.

Heidenheim has addressed its ongoing need for a left-back, a position that has been a concern since the outset of the season. Head coach Frank Schmidt had aimed to secure Köln’s Leart Paçarada prior to the summer transfer window’s conclusion, but an unfortunate injury sidelined the former St. Pauli captain, leaving only Jonas Föhrenbach to fill the gap.

To rectify this issue, Heidenheim has secured Hoffenheim reserve fullback Hennes Behrens on loan through the end of the season. The 20-year-old, who has been performing well for TSG II in the 3. Liga, brings promising potential to the squad. Despite not matching the goal-scoring prowess of his TSG II teammate, Ayoube Amaimouni-Echghouyab, Behrens has shown considerable sharpness in his appearances this season.

Last season, Behrens netted four goals for Hoffenheim’s reserves in the fourth division and has also made two appearances for the first team, contributing in both Bundesliga and Europa League matches. Additionally, he possesses the versatility to play as a center-back and can operate higher up the pitch on the left flank.

Heidenheim’s CEO, Holger Sanwald, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating, “After the serious injury to Leart Paçarada on matchday 3, we were looking for additional quality on the left-hand side. With the loan of Hennes Behrens, we have managed to fill this gap. We’re convinced that he can help our team through the remainder of the season.”

Behrens expressed his enthusiasm for the new opportunity, saying, “The loan to FCH gives me the chance to develop further at a high level in the Bundesliga. I am grateful for the trust placed in me and am determined to contribute to our goal of securing our league position by the end of the season.”

Moreover, Heidenheim’s management has been proactive in addressing the squad’s excess players. Central defender Thomas Keller has been loaned to Dynamo Dresden in the 2. Bundesliga. Over the past three seasons, Keller has made just 12 Bundesliga appearances, although he did score during two Conference League matches last season.

Dresden’s sporting director, Sören Gonther, noted Keller’s qualities, stating, “With Thomas, we have gained a robust and strong tackler for our defensive line. His experience from the Bundesliga and UEFA Conference League will be invaluable for our defensive unit in the upcoming matches.”

Keller affirmed his commitment to helping Dynamo Dresden avoid relegation, saying, “Dynamo Dresden belongs in the 2. Bundesliga, and we will do everything we can to ensure that’s the case in the new season.”

In other developments, Freiburg midfielder Robert Wagner has been loaned out once again, this time to Holstein Kiel. After returning from St. Pauli, where he made 14 appearances, Wagner hopes to make a significant impact at his new club. Having previously scored four goals in 16 Bundesliga appearances, he aims to replicate his success from his loan spell at SpVgg Greuther Fürth.

SGD sporting director Gonther expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, stating, “We are pleased that Robert has taken this unconventional path. His intense playing style, coupled with excellent technical skills, should help stabilize us defensively.”

Finally, Hoffenheim is also restructuring its squad by loaning out Germany U21 international Umut Tohumçu, who has faced competition for playing time in their midfield. Tohumçu, a promising talent with 46 Bundesliga appearances, will gain valuable experience on loan with Kiel, stepping into the role vacated by Wagner.

Kiel’s sporting director, Olaf Rebbe, welcomed Tohumçu, highlighting his versatility and fit with the club’s philosophy. Tohumçu himself expressed eagerness for this new chapter in his career, stating, “Holstein Kiel is an ambitious club with a clear sporting focus, and I am looking forward to contributing to a successful second half of the season.”

GGFN | Peter Weis