Werder Bremen is in last-minute negotiations to loan Stuttgart winger Badredine Bouanani. The 21-year-old is intended to replace the injured Justin Njinmah, according to a report by Bild Sport.
The transfer poker is happening under time pressure, as the German transfer window closes on Wednesday at 8 PM. The deal under discussion is a loan without an option to buy for the Algerian international, who has a market value of 10 million euros. Bouanani moved from OGC Nice to VfB Stuttgart for 15 million euros a year ago but failed to establish himself. In 14 Bundesliga appearances, he contributed no goals or assists. A move to FC Schalke 04 was already considered last winter. His contract in Stuttgart runs until the summer of 2030.
Why does Werder need a new winger?
The need arose due to the injury to Justin Njinmah. The 25-year-old offensive player is sidelined, leaving a gap in Ole Werner's squad. Werder started the season with a defeat and sits in 15th place in the Bundesliga standings with zero points from one game. The team conceded four goals and scored only one, resulting in a goal difference of minus three. Ahead of the important home match against third-placed RB Leipzig on September 5th, the club is seeking reinforcements. The current form, marked by a loss, underscores the need for action.
What does the move mean for Samuel Mbangula?
Parallel to the Bouanani talks, Werder has loaned out another offensive player. Twenty-two-year-old Samuel Mbangula moved on loan to Bologna. Werder will receive a loan fee of two million euros, and the Italian club secured a purchase option of approximately 13 million euros. Werder had signed Mbangula for 10 million euros last summer. Sporting director Peter Niemeyer commented on the move: "Samuel had a difficult first year with us. A short-term opportunity has now arisen which is currently the best solution for all parties." This deal may also create some financial flexibility within the squad budget.
How does Bouanani fit into the current Werder team?
Badredine Bouanani would be a typical wing option for the attack. With five caps for Algeria, he brings international experience, even if he hasn't settled in Stuttgart yet. His profile as a fast, dribble-heavy wide player could provide new impetus to Werder's offense. In the current squad, he would join a group of players like Marvin Ducksch and Nick Woltemade, who are responsible for goal threat. Njinmah's injury directly opens a window for playing time.
What are the next steps for Werder?
All eyes are now on the transfer clock. An agreement with Stuttgart and the player must be reached by 8 PM so the contracts can be registered with the DFL. If the deal falls through, coach Ole Werner will have to go into the upcoming match against RB Leipzig with the existing options. This home game on September 5th is the next opportunity to get the first points of the season and prevent the three-point gap to leaders Bayern Munich from growing. The detailed season statistics from the opening games clearly show the need for improvement. Bouanani's contract runs until 2030.
