VfL Bochum is looking to strengthen its squad. A competitor for Maximilian Wittek on the left side may have been found.

When Uwe Rösler sat down for an interview with this editorial team at the Ruhrstadion shortly before Christmas, he also spoke about the upcoming transfer window. He said at the time that the balance in the squad could be improved. There was only a thin covering for one position. That position is left-back. Maximilian Wittek is currently virtually unchallenged there. Recently, Felix Passlack, a trained right-back, played on that side. In theory, Romario Rösch could also play there, but he has yet to make an appearance under Rösler.

According to information from the Norwegian TV station TV2, Markus Brunnschneider and his team are now looking to strengthen this position. Mikkel Rakneberg is reportedly close to a move to Castroper Straße. The 1.87-meter-tall player only has to pass a medical. It is therefore quite possible that the 23-year-old Norwegian could already be on the pitch when training starts on January 2 (10 a.m. and 3 p.m.).

VfL Bochum focuses on the Scandinavian market

Rakneberg would certainly fit the bill. According to information obtained by this editorial team, the Scandinavian market has become more of a focus. The new team around the sporting management is no longer just scouting the usual markets, but is also exploring other markets and exciting players with potential, benefiting from the large network of Brunnschneider, the new Director of Scouting, Recruitment & Data. It should also be helpful that Rösler is very familiar with Scandinavia.

The countries in northern Europe are also exciting because many contracts expire there in winter due to the number of games played per calendar year. This is also the case with Rakneberg, who has been without a club since January 1, 2026. His advantage: he can play both as a left-back and in left midfield. In the past season in Norway, he was a regular player for Kristiansund.