Report: Schalke show interest in Swiss striker Frey
Belgian newspaper "La Dernière Heure/Les Sports" reports that FC Schalke 04 are interesting in acquiring disaffected Swiss striker Michael Frey from Royal Antwerp F.C.
If Belgium's La Dernière Heure is to be believed, FC Schalke 04 have a player in mind to close the gap left by injured lead-striker Sebastian Polter. Swiss journeyman Michael Frey reportedly told fans after a recent cup match that he had played his last match for the Jupiler Pro League outfit. The 28-year-old is reportedly tired of oscillating between the bench and the starting XI.
Frey, who has played in Switzerland, France, Turkey, and even with 1. FC Nürnberg on loan in the German second division, maintains a current estimated market value of some €4.5 million after scoring nine goals across all competitions for the Reds this year. His decreased playing time nevertheless leaves him dissatisfied. Frey netted a much more impressive 24 total tallies last year.
A potentially high transfer fee could prove a massive stumbling block to the transfer. Moreover, as the Flemish daily Het Nieuwsblad reports, Antwerp aren't necessarily very keen on letting the player go. Schalke may be able to sort out a loan arrangement with appropriate fees if the Belgian club can procure a serviceable replacement.
Frey scored four goals for Nürnberg during the 2019/20 campaign. La Dernière Heure reports that Schalke have contacted the player himself, but makes no mention of any specific negotiations with the club.