Leopold Querfeld’s contract with 1. FC Union Berlin contains a release clause that increases to €15 million for Premier League clubs, Bild reports. German sides can secure the defender for €11 million, creating a €4 million disparity between domestic and English buyers.
The 22-year-old Austria international has attracted interest from clubs across Germany, England, France and Italy after an impressive campaign. The tiered structure suggests Union Berlin anticipate stronger financial competition from the English top flight.
Breakthrough season
Querfeld established himself as a key figure for Union Berlin during the 2025/26 season, scoring seven goals in 34 appearances. His attacking return from the back line marked him out as one of the club’s most productive players, an unusual contribution for a centre-back.
The Vienna-born defender offers both immediate defensive quality and potential resale value given his age. His performances have placed him firmly on the radar of multiple European sides seeking reinforcements.
International omission
Despite his domestic form, Querfeld received disappointing news at international level last month. He has earned five senior caps for Austria but was left out of the squad for the 2026 World Cup finals.
The exclusion indicates that Austria’s coaching staff favoured alternative defensive options for the tournament, regardless of his goalscoring record in the Bundesliga.
Transfer implications
The differentiated release clause reflects Union Berlin’s strategy to maximise value from wealthy foreign bidders whilst keeping the player accessible to German rivals. The €11 million domestic figure represents a realistic target for mid-table Bundesliga clubs, while the €15 million barrier tests the resolve of Premier League sides.
No formal approaches have been confirmed publicly, though the transparency of his contract terms provides clarity for potential suitors. The coming weeks will reveal whether any club is prepared to meet either valuation, or whether Querfeld will remain in Berlin for the 2026/27 campaign.