So far, Chris Richards has played significantly more games for 1899 Hoffenheim than for the FC Bayern pros. And if TSG has its way, there could be more games in Kraichgau for the FCB talent in 2022/23. But the competition for the central defender is fierce.
Chris Richards and TSG Hoffenheim: that seems to fit. In the second half of the 2020/21 season, the young American got a taste of the air for the first time on loan from Bundesliga competitor FC Bayern, where the central defender still has a contract until 2025. After a short gallop in Munich, we finally went back to TSG last season – this time even for a whole year.
According to information from “kicker”, those responsible in Hoffenheim can even imagine a third commitment from the defender. The 22-year-old, who joined FC Bayern in 2018, is (still) on the list of candidates for the vacant central defender position. Another loan is right for the TSG bosses, and a permanent transfer is also being considered.
However, the two-footed US international will not come cheap, and at the same time the coffers in Hoffenheim are almost empty due to the aftermath of the corona pandemic.
FC Bayern probably wants 15 million euros for Richards
An exact transfer fee is not mentioned, but “Sport1” recently reported a demand for 15 million euros. So it’s quite possible that TSG will have to wait until possible candidates like David Raum bring in fresh money.
However, time may be of the essence. According to “kicker”, Richards is also being courted by English clubs. The specialist magazine does not give exact names, but recently it said that Crystal Palace and FC Southampton are interested. The interest in Bayern talent seems great.
Appropriately, the US TV broadcaster “CBS Sports” recently reported that three clubs from La Liga are interested in Richards. After all, one of them is FC Valencia.
Richards has made 34 appearances for Hoffenheim in all competitions over the past year and a half. He scored one goal and set up two goals.