Werder Bremen Extend Contract of Young Goalkeeper Mio Backhaus
Werder Bremen have extended the contract of 21-year-old German goalkeeper Mio Backhaus, signaling their commitment to the rising talent. The decision could have implications for current first-choice keeper Michael Zetterer, who has recently been the subject of transfer speculation. However, the club is expected to take a cautious approach before promoting Backhaus, a Mönchengladbach native, to a starting role in the Bundesliga.
Backhaus has already made 14 appearances for Germany across youth levels up to the U20s and is seen as a player with significant potential, though he is yet to debut in the Bundesliga. Werder seem intent on grooming him as their long-term solution in goal.
It remains uncertain whether Backhaus will be thrust into a starting position quickly, similar to the rapid ascent of Noah Atubolu at SC Freiburg. Meanwhile, transfer rumors connecting Zetterer with a move to FC Copenhagen are reportedly losing traction, with the Danish club now said to be eyeing Bayer Leverkusen’s Matej Kovar instead, according to Sport Bild.
The same report notes that Backhaus’s new contract includes a release clause, though the exact figure is undisclosed. With a market valuation of €2 million, the young keeper has secured both stability and future flexibility in his career.
Speaking through the club’s official channels, Backhaus shared: “Werder outlined a clear development path for me from the beginning. That gave me confidence and left a strong impression. I know the competition here is tough—but that challenge is what motivates me. I’m committed to earning the long-term trust the club has shown in me.”
Peter Niemeyer, SV Werder Bremen’s head of licensing, added: “Mio is a fantastic goalkeeper with the potential to break into the Bundesliga. We’re very pleased with his progress. He embodies the qualities of a modern goalkeeper—he’s hardworking, constantly pushes himself in training, and strives for daily improvement.”
