Mainz 05 Considers Signing Marvin Friedrich from Borussia Mönchengladbach

According to Kicker, Mainz 05 is contemplating the signing of Marvin Friedrich, a centre-back currently with Borussia Mönchengladbach. The 30-year-old player previously spent four seasons under coach Fischer at 1. FC Union Berlin, competing in both the 2. Bundesliga and the Bundesliga. Friedrich has seen limited action for his current club and is on an expiring contract, with an estimated market value of €1.2 million.

As Mainz currently finds itself at the bottom of the Bundesliga table, the recent inability to maintain a two-goal lead during their away match against Union Berlin underscores an urgent need for defensive reinforcements. Kicker reports that Mainz aims to acquire Friedrich at a low cost, potentially mirroring the recent six-figure transfer model they employed to sign Stuttgart attacker Silas just days ago.

During his time with Fischer, Friedrich experienced the most successful period of his career, making 129 competitive appearances at Union Berlin. His market value soared from €600,000 to €10 million between 2018 and 2022, culminating in a notable transfer to Gladbach for €5.5 million in January 2022.

However, Friedrich has struggled to secure a consistent spot in the starting lineup under BMG head coach Daniel Farke. Last season, he endured a notable spell of eleven consecutive matches on the bench. The situation did not improve significantly under Gerardo Seoane, where injuries provided him with some regular playing time towards the end of the season.

The pattern of limited playing time continued with Seoane in the following season, leading to ongoing speculation about Friedrich’s discontent regarding his role. This season, he has managed only one start across 16 Bundesliga matches, making him appear expendable.

Observations from Bundesliga reporters regarding the Silas transfer suggest that Mainz will pursue Friedrich for a minimal fee. It is worth mentioning that earlier rumors of reuniting with former Union striker Taiwo Awoniyi proved unfounded, likely due to the player’s high price tag at Nottingham Forest.

Having already invested €4 million in Augsburg striker Phillip Tietz, it appears that Mainz may not engage in any significant purchases during the current January transfer window. Despite operating with a transfer surplus from the summer, the club must prepare for the possibility of relegation to the 2. Bundesliga.