FC St. Pauli

Wieckhoff joined the club's youth academy from HSV in 2012 and progressed through the ranks. He had his first year in the senior game in the 2019-20 season, making 15 appearances for the Under-23s (1 goal, 1 assist).

Reaction to the deal:

Director of sport Andreas Bornemann: "Jannes quickly acclimatised to the conditions in the men's game with the Under-23s. We kept a close eye on his progress last year and are convinced he can make the step up to the professional level. He came through the youth ranks in the academy and knows the club very well. We're delighted he wants to take the next step with us."

Head coach Timo Schultz: "Having coached Jannes at both Under-17 and Under-19 level, I know his style of play well. He loves to get forward from right-back but is also quick to track back and defend. From his performances in the Under-23s it was evident that he's taken the next step in his development, so I think he'll be ready to battle for a starting place on the right side of defence from the off."

Jannes Wieckhoff: "It's an incredible feeling to sign my first professional contract, having worked so hard for it in the last few years. I'm grateful to the club for this opportunity but I'm not going to sit back. My aim is to play at the Millerntor – preferably in front of fans, of course."

A St. Pauli player since 2012 and now furnished with a professional contract – Jannes Wieckhoff.

Photos: Witters