Hoffenheim and Austrian star Christoph Baumgartner have put down speculation about him and insist that he is fully committed to playing for the Bundesliga club next season.
Rumors in recent weeks have linked Baumgartner to Liverpool, and Manchester United are also said to be interested in the 21-year-old.
Christoph Baumgartner avoids Ukrainian challenges / Mihai Barbu – Pool / Getty Images
However, the attacking midfielder – who can also play as a striker – signed an extension contract as early as March and signed his contract with Hoffenheim until 2025. In an interview with Sport Bild (reported by bulinews.com), Baumgartner revealed that his intention is to stick with their current employers.
“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,” he confirmed.
“I think I have the greatest opportunity to develop further here. For me, it means playing consistently at a high level with more room for improvement.”
Baumgartner has flourished in Hoffenheim, where he previously played under 19 and reserve football. He has impressed in the last two seasons, in both of which he has registered 11 Bundesliga goal contributions.
His domestic form since his breakthrough in 2019/20 has also given him international recognition. Franco Foda gave him his debut for Austria in September 2020 and has since awarded Baumgartner 14 international caps, where the 21-year-old has made four appearances.
Baumgartner celebrates after scoring against Wolfsburg / Christian Kaspar-Bartke / Getty Images
He was selected as Foda’s last 26-man group for Euro 2020 and was part of the 90 min Our 21 series and noted the most special young talent at this summer’s European Championships.
Baumgartner was involved in all four of Austria’s matches at Euro 2020 and noted above all the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Ukraine, before Italy released them in the round of 16, with the permission of a 2-1 extra time win.
