Eintracht Frankfurt Complete the Signing of Wout Faes from Leicester; Medicals Scheduled……
*Frankfurt, Germany – June 22, 2025*
Eintracht Frankfurt have confirmed the acquisition of Belgian international Wout Faes from Leicester City, marking a significant addition to their defensive lineup ahead of the 2025–26 Bundesliga season. The transfer, reportedly in the region of €12 million, sees the 27-year-old central defender return to a top-tier European league after Leicester’s turbulent campaign in the EFL Championship. Finalization of the deal is pending the completion of medical examinations, scheduled to take place at Deutsche Bank Park on Monday.
This signing underscores Frankfurt’s ambition to rebuild their defensive core following the departure of Evan Ndicka to AS Roma and Tuta’s potential exit, with several Serie A and Premier League clubs reportedly circling. Sporting director Markus Krösche described Faes as “a player of proven quality and immense character,” citing his experience in the Premier League and international level as critical assets for the squad moving forward.
### A Defender with Grit and Style
Wout Faes first caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs through a string of commanding performances for Stade de Reims in Ligue 1. Known for his aggressive but composed defending, ball-playing ability, and unmistakable curly hair, the Belgian earned a move to Leicester City in 2022. While his time in the Premier League was a rollercoaster, few doubted his commitment and leadership qualities.
His performances often drew both praise and scrutiny. Though he was sometimes criticized for high-risk passes and positional lapses, his fighting spirit and aerial prowess made him a standout during difficult periods for Leicester. In the 2023–24 season, Faes played a pivotal role in helping Leicester secure promotion back to the Premier League, but sources suggest the club was open to letting him go to balance their books and reshape their squad.
Eintracht Frankfurt, who finished 7th in the Bundesliga last season and narrowly missed out on Europa League qualification, have been in the market for experienced defensive reinforcements. Faes, with over 150 appearances in top European leagues and caps with the Belgian national team, fits the profile perfectly.
### “A New Chapter in My Career”
In a short statement released via his agent, Faes expressed excitement about the move:
> “Eintracht Frankfurt is a club with great history, passionate fans, and big ambitions. I’m looking forward to playing in the Bundesliga and helping the team achieve its goals this season. Germany has always appealed to me for its intensity and tactical structure. I can’t wait to get started.”
He is expected to sign a four-year contract with Die Adler, keeping him at the club until 2029. If the medical goes as planned, Faes will link up with head coach Dino Toppmöller’s squad next week for pre-season training in Austria.
### Frankfurt’s Summer Ambitions
Frankfurt’s ambitions this summer are clear: consolidate their squad, return to European competition, and possibly make a deep run in the DFB-Pokal. The club has already secured the services of Austrian midfielder Romano Schmid from Werder Bremen and extended the loan of Egyptian striker Omar Marmoush, who impressed last season with his pace and work rate.
The addition of Faes brings much-needed stability and leadership at the back. Frankfurt struggled with consistency in central defense last season, conceding 48 goals – more than any other team in the top half of the table. With a potential back three system on the horizon, Faes’ ability to read the game and distribute from deep could be a game-changer.
Coach Toppmöller, speaking at a press briefing earlier this week, didn’t name Faes directly but hinted at key reinforcements on the horizon:
> “We are looking for players who can lead, who are not afraid to take responsibility on the pitch. Experience, resilience, and football intelligence – these are the qualities we value.”
### Reaction from Belgium
Back home in Belgium, fans and pundits have welcomed the move. Former Red Devils defender Thomas Vermaelen, now working as a pundit for RTL Sport, called it “an excellent opportunity for Wout to re-establish himself at the highest level.” He added:
> “The Bundesliga is tactically demanding, but it rewards physical defenders who can play the ball. Wout has all the tools, and Frankfurt is a great platform for him to grow.”
The Belgian national team is currently in transition, with several veterans nearing the twilight of their international careers. A strong showing in the Bundesliga could see Faes cement a more regular role in Domenico Tedesco’s squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
### What’s Next?
If the medical checks go as expected, Wout Faes will be officially unveiled by Eintracht Frankfurt early next week. The club is planning a media day and fan event, possibly during their training camp in Austria. Faes is expected to wear the number 4 shirt, previously donned by club legend Carlos Zambrano.
Frankfurt’s first pre-season fixture is scheduled for July 15 against Swiss side FC Lugano. With Faes likely to feature, fans will be eager to see how quickly he adapts to the rhythm and style of German football.
This move could be a turning point in the Belgian defender’s career — a fresh start in a league known for producing and reviving top defensive talent. For Frankfurt, it signals serious intent: a club not content with mid-table mediocrity, but pushing to return to the continental stage.
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