NEWS
These Strikers Are Allowed to Leave Sturm
The Graz team would let several offensive players go if suitable offers came in.
SK Sturm Graz started the new season with a 4-0 home victory in the European Cup against Heart of Midlothian.
Today, Friday, the Styrians are guests at SV Seekirchen in the UNIQA ÖFB Cup (from 8:30 PM in the LIVE ticker >>>).
Three years ago, then-new signing Szymon Wlodarczyk (23) immediately introduced himself with a hat-trick in the first cup round. His Bundesliga start was also strong, with four goals in the first five games.
After that, however, the Polish striker didn't really find happiness in a Sturm jersey. After loan spells with Salernitana (ITA) and Excelsior Rotterdam (NED), the 23-year-old is now back in Graz.
Strikers Quartet Likely Allowed to Leave
Wlodarczyk was in the starting eleven for the 4-0 victory against the Hearts. However, his stay in Graz is not guaranteed.
His preparation was good, and his performance in the first game "decent," said Sturm sporting director Michael Parensen to the "Kronen Zeitung".
"Nevertheless, we have spoken with him and his representatives about what prospects we can still offer him with a remaining contract term of one year. He has been under contract with Sturm for three years now; at some point, one has to see what his next step can be," said the German.
"Both are no longer necessarily in the 'talent age'"
This means: Should a suitable offer arrive, the Graz team will likely not stand in Wlodarczyk's way.
The same applies to Seedy Jatta (23), who started alongside Wlodarczyk in the European Cup. "That is indeed the plan; both players are no longer necessarily in the 'talent age,' which is where our club's philosophy actually lies," said Parensen.
Striker Maurice Malone (25) is also to be released. There are already interested parties for him, and talks are ongoing. For 22-year-old Peter Kiedl, Sturm is considering another loan or a sale.
Grgic Comeback in Autumn
Leon Grgic, however, is set for the future. The 20-year-old recently extended his contract and received the number 9.
He is currently recovering from his cruciate ligament rupture. "We expect him back at the end of September, beginning of October," said Parensen.
In addition to other attackers Axel Kayombo, Belmin Beganovic, and Amady Camara, the Styrians currently also have Nelson Weiper, a striker on loan from Mainz.
