VfL Wolfsburg has signed eight external newcomers for a total of €22.70 million to secure an immediate return to the Bundesliga after relegation. Backed by Volkswagen, the club now wields a record‑breaking transfer budget.
The new arrivals include Fabian Reese from Hertha BSC, Muhammed Damar from TSG Hoffenheim, Robert Glatzel from Hamburger SV, Fraser Hornby from Darmstadt 98 and Hauke Wahl from FC St. Pauli. All eight contracts total €22.70 million, despite interest from several top‑flight clubs. Reese’s signing surprised many, as Borussia Dortmund had previously shown interest in the league’s second‑best scorer.
The drop and the failed relegation playoff against Paderborn in May turned VfL Wolfsburg into a cautionary tale in German football. With a transfer surplus exceeding €40 million, the club can now generate fees while assembling a strong squad for the 2. Liga. The budget allows the acquisition of players who would normally attract Bundesliga teams.
At the end of the 2025 season, VfL Wolfsburg finished 16th in the Bundesliga with 29 points, 7 wins, 8 draws and 19 losses, and a recent form of LDWLD. This season the team has scored 45 goals and conceded 69, a -24 goal difference. The latest result was a 2‑1 loss to SC Paderborn 07 on 25 May 2026. Currently, Bence Dárdai is sidelined with injury.
Coach Tobias Strobl, who arrived from third‑division SC Verl, and sporting director Pirmin Schwegler stress that further signings are possible as long as funds remain available. Fans can expect more transfers aimed at out‑pacing rivals in the 2. Liga and securing promotion. The club hopes the newcomers will meet season objectives and lift the atmosphere at the Volkswagen Arena.
