Mainz boss comments on speculation surrounding Burkardt's future and interest from Frankfurt
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Jonathan Burkardt has been in excellent form for Mainz this season, finding the net 10 times in 14 Bundesliga appearances.
With that in mind, it's only natural that the 24-year-old has caught the eye of other clubs, according to Mainz sporting director Christian Heidel.
“That's normal: When a player is doing so outstandingly well in Mainz, he naturally becomes interesting for other clubs,” Heidel told Sport Bild.
“If there's a situation where Jonny comes to us and wants to take the next, bigger step, then we'll talk. We don't lock anybody up, the players know that and that's why they like being with us. But at the moment it's not a topic for either side, Jonny's heart is with Mainz," he continued.
Asked about interest in Burkardt from Eintracht Frankfurt, who Sport Bild claims the striker supported as a child, Heidel replied:
“I am not interested in such things. And when you see how he celebrated our victory in Frankfurt, that speaks for itself.”
He went on to insist that Mainz are under no pressure to sell the 24-year-old, who is under contract until 2027.
“There is no price tag on Jonny Burkardt. And if it's up to me, it won't be a topic now or in the summer, but only in the future. What's also important is that our club is in excellent health, we don't have a cent of debt and there is no pressure to sell anyone," Heidel emphasized.
