Baumgartner: I Plan to Play for Hoffenheim Next Season

The summer of Georgino Wijnaldum replacement transfer rumours rolls on. After being linked to Liverpool FC and Manchester United this week on the back of some impressive performances for Austria, Hoffenheim midfielder Christoph Baumgartner has insisted that he will be playing for the same club this upcoming season. Speaking to German publication SportBild, he said:

“My clear plan is to play for Hoffenheim next season. I definitely extended my contract in March with the intention of playing here next season.”

“I see the best opportunity here to develop myself further. For me that means: continuous performance at a high level, with even more upward strides.”

In the same interview, the 21-year-old also spoke about his playing style, and who he hopes to emulate:

“My style of play is certainly going in that direction, but I will not compare myself to Thomas Muller, who has won umpteen titles.

“I like to watch videos of his goals and assists. And when I watch the Champions League on the sofa, I pay special attention to how cleverly he acts in the narrow spaces. I also like the way he communicates with his teammates.

“He is also referred to as “Radio Muller”. He’s one of the best in the world and certainly a role model. I’m not yet “Radio Baumgartner”, but I also try to take responsibility, give commands and keep the boys awake.”

Not quite a like-for-like replacement for Gini then. The search goes on.