Tug of war expected over Ozan Kabak

In Hoffenheim’s 2-2 draw with FC Köln at the weekend, the Turkish international underlined his importance once again. Kabak found the net and delivered another composed display at the heart of the defence alongside Robin Hranáč, continuing what has been an impressive campaign so far.

While Hoffenheim have already secured the future of Vladimír Coufal with a recent contract extension, Kabak’s situation is now high on the club’s agenda. Talks over a new deal are expected to intensify in the coming weeks as the Sinsheim outfit look to avoid losing one of their key defensive pillars on a free transfer.

There is optimism internally that Kabak will commit his future to the club. He is comfortable in his current surroundings and is said to be grateful for Hoffenheim’s support during his recovery from a torn cruciate ligament, and his celebration against Köln - symbolically slapping the club crest - was widely interpreted as a sign of his connection to the side.

However, the situation is unlikely to be straightforward. According to Kicker, clubs from England, Italy and Spain are closely monitoring developments. Given his age and experience at both domestic and international level, a free transfer would represent a highly attractive market opportunity.

Kabak is also in the process of obtaining German citizenship, a move that could further enhance his appeal to potential suitors across Europe by offering greater squad registration flexibility.

For now, Hoffenheim remain hopeful - but with growing external interest and time ticking on his contract, a genuine tug of war may be about to unfold.