Man United Launches Bold Raid Against Barcelona and Real Madrid for Rising 'Next Toni Kroos' Sensation
Hertha BSC's 16-year-old prodigy Kennet Eichhorn has become a coveted target across Europe, generating transfer speculation of "extraordinary" intensity according to German media reports.
Eichhorn looks set to be a name worth remembering. The defensive midfielder, who already measures 6'1" in height, made history this season by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in Germany's second division when he appeared against Karlsruher SC in August, just two weeks following his 16th birthday.
"He represents an incredible, exceptional talent," Eichhorn's enthusiastic teammate Fabian Reese declared following that debut appearance. "Should he maintain this trajectory, every opportunity will be available to him. I've seldom witnessed someone so gifted at such a young age. A tremendous career awaits him."
The youngster has already accumulated seven league appearances as a starter this campaign and features regularly for Germany's U17 national squad. This remarkable progression has drawn attention from numerous clubs, with representatives from Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain present to observe Eichhorn, according to Sky Germany.
German top-flight giants Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are also monitoring a player whose contract with Hertha runs until 2029. Sky reports that Eichhorn possesses a release clause worth approximately €10–12 million (£8.8–10.5 million, $11.6–13.9 million) that becomes active next year.
Nevertheless, Eichhorn has received counsel to remain at Hertha for both the club's and player's development.
Eichhorn Counseled to Remain in Berlin
Eichhorn has frequently drawn parallels to iconic Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos, something that concerns members of the Kroos family. "Comparisons, as I understand from personal experience, are never beneficial," Felix Kroos, Toni's sibling, shared with Watson earlier this season.
The former Germany U21 representative had a ten-year playing career himself, though he didn't achieve the same level of success as his brother. Nevertheless, Felix certainly possesses greater experience in Germany's second tier, which is where he believes Eichhorn should continue for several more years.
"There isn't one correct path, no perfect blueprint," Kroos elaborated. "Still, Eichhorn, representing a unique situation at 16, should stay within his comfortable environment. That foundation brought him to his current position.
"A transfer to Bayern Munich or Borussia Dortmund would be too early within the next two to four years. I wish for him to keep developing at Hertha for additional years. In the end, however, nothing can be predetermined in football."
"Should circumstances work favorably, and Eichhorn remains for another two or three seasons, that €6 million [his present market value] might even grow to €60 million," Kroos smiled. "That would prove even more beneficial for Berlin's finances. Considering the monetary figures being discussed nowadays, six million seems somewhat modest."
"Eichhorn's playing style is exceptional," Kroos added. "He displays composure, accumulates important experience, and has permission to learn from errors. He possesses the ability, yet he will occasionally be rested. Such a young player needs respite because it's mentally demanding."