Noah Atubolu has rejected approaches from Hull City and Coventry City as the SC Freiburg goalkeeper pushes for a transfer to the Premier League, according to German outlet Bild. The 24-year-old has made clear his desire to test himself at the highest level in England, dismissing alternatives from lower divisions despite their top-flight ambitions.
The former Germany Under-21 international has reportedly set his sights specifically on a move to the Premier League. Bild describes Hull and Coventry as Premier League newcomers, though both currently compete in the Championship. Atubolu apparently favours established top-flight options, with Bournemouth and Aston Villa remaining active contenders for his signature. An unnamed third English top-flight club is also monitoring developments closely, providing the goalkeeper with multiple potential destinations.
Atubolu’s stance comes amid a shifting landscape at Freiburg. The Bundesliga side recently completed the signing of Mio Backhaus, signalling that the German no longer has a future at the club. With his contract entering its final twelve months, Freiburg find themselves in a position where selling now makes financial sense. Allowing the deal to run down would risk losing the asset without compensation next summer, making an immediate transfer the preferred outcome for the German club’s hierarchy.
The goalkeeper has taken decisive steps to accelerate his exit from the Black Forest. He has allegedly requested that Freiburg exclude him from their pre-season training camp in Austria, a move seemingly designed to prevent any injury that could derail prospective deals. This action underlines his determination to secure a transfer before the window closes, with Bild suggesting he wishes to avoid jeopardising a potential move.
Financially, reports indicate Freiburg have set their valuation at approximately €20 million. This figure reflects Atubolu’s potential and international experience, positioning him as a significant investment for interested parties. Both Bournemouth and Aston Villa are assessing their goalkeeping options as they prepare for the upcoming campaign, with Atubolu representing an attractive long-term prospect given his age and pedigree at youth international level.
A resolution appears likely in the coming weeks. Freiburg will want to conclude business early to allow their squad to settle and integrate Backhaus properly, while Atubolu seeks clarity on his future. The goalkeeper’s rejection of Championship interest suggests he is holding out for a Premier League opportunity, leaving the door open for the likes of Bournemouth or Villa to complete a deal should they meet the asking price.