World Cup
denies €15m Hoffenheim bid for Kodai Sano
German sports daily reported on Tuesday that TSG Hoffenheim’s interest in NEC forward Kodai Sano has not yet produced a concrete €15 million offer, contradicting rumours circulating in the Netherlands about a pending bid. The German outlet clarified that no formal proposal has been submitted, despite speculation linking the Japanese striker with the Bundesliga side.
wrote that “although TSG Hoffenheim has interest in a possible transfer of Sano, there is (yet) no concrete bid of fifteen million euros made, as circulating in the Netherlands.” The article noted that Hoffenheim is a Bundesliga club.
The story was first broken by Dutch broadcaster Omroep Gelderland and transfer journalist Mounir Boualin. They had announced the potential move earlier in the week.
Dutch media had expected an initial €15 million offer to be rejected because NEC seeks a higher fee. NEC has not disclosed which amount would satisfy the club.
Hoffenheim is not the only suitor, as PSV Eindhoven continues to monitor the Japanese forward. PSV’s interest remains active despite the ongoing transfer speculation.
Last season Kodai Sano featured in 39 matches for NEC. He recorded three goals and provided eight assists.
Transfermarkt lists his market value at €12 million. His contract with NEC runs until mid‑2028.
also highlighted that Kodai’s older brother Kaishu Sano is already playing in Germany. The 25‑year‑old Kaishu represents FSV Mainz in the Bundesliga.