Brentford open Kevin Schade contract talks as Arsenal and Liverpool circle

Brentford have held initial talks with Kevin Schade about a new long-term contract, with Arsenal and Liverpool among the clubs tracking the Germany winger after his excellent start to the season.

  • Player: Kevin Schade
  • Current club: Brentford
  • Interested clubs: Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham
  • Contract status: Entering final two years of current deal signed June 2023 from SC Freiburg for £20m
  • Season form: Three goals in five Premier League games; Brentford unbeaten and fourth
  • Talks stage: Initial talks held over improved terms

Deal details

Brentford signed Schade from SC Freiburg for £20m in June 2023. His current contract has two years remaining, and the club are keen to secure him on improved, long-term terms following his strong start to the campaign.

Arsenal and Liverpool are understood to have been the keenest admirers as the summer transfer window drew to a close. Chelsea and Tottenham have also tracked the winger for some time, according to Sky Sports.

The numbers

  • Goals this season: 3 in 5 Premier League appearances
  • Brentford's record: Unbeaten in opening five games – two home wins (Tottenham, Chelsea) and three draws – fourth in the table
  • Career tally at Brentford: 25 goals and 9 assists in 119 games
  • Transfer fee paid: £20m from SC Freiburg in June 2023
  • Contract: Final two years of current deal

Why Brentford are moving now

Kevin Schade has been one of the standout performers in the early weeks of the season. His three goals have helped Brentford to an unbeaten start, including home victories over Tottenham and Chelsea, and a current fourth-place position. That form has inevitably drawn attention from bigger clubs, with Arsenal and Liverpool leading the chase. Brentford's proactive move to open talks is designed to protect their asset and reward his contribution, while also strengthening their negotiating position should a formal bid arrive. The club are understood to be keen to tie him down to improved terms, but with two years left on his existing deal, they retain some bargaining power.

From a tactical perspective, Schade offers pace, direct running and a goal threat from wide areas – attributes that would fit Arsenal's need for a left-sided forward and Liverpool's desire for attacking depth. However, Brentford's system under Thomas Frank relies heavily on his ability to stretch defences and contribute in transition. Losing him would leave a significant void, which explains why the club are acting swiftly to secure his future.

Talking points

  • Can Brentford realistically keep Schade if Arsenal or Liverpool submit a formal offer in January or next summer?
  • Is Schade's improvement down to Brentford's system or is he ready for a step up to a Champions League club?
  • With Chelsea and Tottenham also interested, could a bidding war drive his price well beyond the £20m Brentford paid?
  • Should Schade sign a new deal now, or wait to see if a bigger club makes a concrete move?

What happens next

Brentford will continue talks with Schade's representatives over the coming weeks, aiming to agree improved terms before the January transfer window opens. Any formal approach from Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea or Tottenham would test their resolve. The next fixture – Brentford's Premier League game following the international break – will be Schade's next opportunity to impress suitors and strengthen his negotiating position.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kevin Schade leaving Brentford?

No. Brentford have opened talks over a new long-term contract and are keen to keep him. Arsenal and Liverpool are interested but no transfer has been agreed.

How much did Brentford pay for Kevin Schade?

Brentford signed Schade from SC Freiburg for £20m in June 2023.

Which clubs are interested in Kevin Schade?

Arsenal and Liverpool are thought to be the keenest, but Chelsea and Tottenham have also tracked him for some time.

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