Schalke have the next new signing to announce. Alex Kral (24) will wear the jersey of the Knappen in the coming season.
“Hello, I’m Alex Kral, and I’m looking forward to Schalke. Good luck.” With this short video from the training camp in Mittersill, the Schalke newcomer welcomed the fans.
The Czech signed a one-year contract with S04 and is the eleventh new arrival for the Königsblauen. “With Alex, the overall package fits perfectly with regard to his position. Despite his size of 1.87 metres, he is very agile, brings a high running workload and a good maximum speed,” explained sporting director Rouven Schröder. “He is clever and skilful against the ball, closes spaces and anticipates the opponent’s actions very well. In addition, he is very experienced for his 24 years and has a positive body language.” No transfer fee is due. Kral had completed the medical check on Wednesday.
Coach Frank Kramer is also looking forward to the defensive midfielder. “I have known Alex for many years, especially from his time in Czech junior national teams. He should steer our game from the midfield centre with his keen understanding. He also often finds good playmaking solutions under pressure. “
Schalk’s central midfield – both defensively and offensively – was actually already well-staffed without Kral. First and foremost, the additions Tom Krauß and Florent Mollet are hoping for supporting roles, and of course players like Danny Latza, Victor Palsson, Florian Flick, Dominick Drexler, Blendi Idrizi and Rodrigo Zalazar will also stake claims.
Special transfer scheme allows transfer
Kral was actually under contract with Spartak Moscow, but took advantage of FIFA’s special transfer regulation for foreign professionals in Russia and Ukraine extended until 2023 as a result of the war of aggression. Thus Schalke had the opportunity to get the Czech on the cheap. Kral played for West Ham United in the Premier League last season.
