Centre-forward Mikkel Kaufmann is leaving 1. FC Union Berlin and moving within the Bundesliga to 1. FC Heidenheim. The 23-year-old Dane moved from FC Kopenhagen to Köpenick last summer.

A decisive and important goal

Kaufmann made a total of 19 appearances in the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal during his time at Union. He only scored one competitive goal, but it was one whose importance was huge. Following 16 games without a win, the right-footer scored the third in Union’s 3-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach, and thus played a decisive role in the turn in the club’s fortunes.

After Hamburger SV, Karlsruher SC and 1. FC Union Berlin, 1. FC Heidenheim will now be his fourth club in Germany.

The views on Mikkel’s move

"The year at Union was very formative for me,” said the Dane on the ending of his contract. “On the one hand, the season had many ups and downs, both for the club and for me. Nevertheless, we fought with all our might for a conciliatory end and achieved it. I have learnt a lot here and am grateful to have been part of this team. I wish the club and its fans all the best for the future. Now I'm ready for a new challenge."

Horst Heldt, the future director of men's professional football at 1. FC Union Berlin, explained meanwhile, "Even if Mikkel didn't take on the desired role in the forward line that we and he himself had hoped for, he always behaved in the interests of the team and gave one hundred per cent on the pitch every day. We wish Mikkel all the best, good health and every success in his future endeavours."