Brentford have confirmed that they have agreed to sign Freiburg forward Kevin Schade in a deal which may eventually prove to be for a club-record fee.
On the back of last season's 13th-placed finish, the Bees are now enjoying another impressive campaign in what is just their second in the Premier League.
Thomas Frank's side sit in ninth position after recently collecting 10 points from four games versus Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Liverpool.
Rather than be content with already establishing a 12-point gap between themselves and the relegation zone, Brentford have moved to pull off yet another eye-catching transfer.
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Although the acquisition of Schade is initially on a loan deal until the end of the season, Brentford have stated that they expect to sign the 21-year-old for a club-record fee during the summer.
Schade has, so far, endured a frustrating campaign, making just two starts and 10 substitute outings in the Bundesliga and Europa League.
One of the right winger's two goals came in a 4-0 victory over Nantes in the latter competition, and the Germany Under-21 international departs Freiburg having chipped in with six goals and four assists from 36 appearances.
Commenting on the signing, Frank told the club's official website: "I think Kevin is a typical Brentford signing. He is a young, promising talent that we see a big potential in. We have been following him for a while and we think he will suit our style of play.
✍ Welcome to Brentford, @kevinschade_#SchadeSigns pic.twitter.com/R35JeqVXIf
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) January 4, 2023
"He can play anywhere across our front three positions. He could play for us on either wing or as the central striker. He has great pace and is very promising in the way he runs behind defences.
"He is very good aerially, in both boxes, and can develop even more to be a real threat as an offensive option with his head."
Brentford state that the transfer is subject to international clearance, something which they may hope to secure before the FA Cup third tie with West Ham United at the weekend.
Should Brentford fail to finalise a deal by midday on Friday, Schade will not come into contention until the Premier League meeting with Bournemouth on January 14.
Darren Plant
