Feyenoord confirm signing of goalkeeper Tjark Ernst from Hertha BSC

Feyenoord have officially completed the signing of German goalkeeper Tjark Ernst from Hertha BSC, with the 23-year-old putting pen to paper on a four-year contract at De Kuip.

The move had been expected for some time, with Feyenoord and Ernst in advanced negotiations after it became clear that club captain Timon Wellenreuther was set to complete a transfer to Wolfsburg.

Speaking to the club’s official website after sealing his move, Ernst expressed his excitement about beginning a new chapter in the Netherlands.

“It’s wonderful to be able to call myself a Feyenoord player now,” Ernst said. “It felt right from the very first talks. The club has a lot of ambition, and that suits me.

“After three years in the 2. Bundesliga, I feel ready for a move like this. It’s my first time outside Germany, to a big club that competes in European football every year and will be back in the UEFA Champions League next season.”

Ernst joined Hertha BSC from VfL Bochum in 2023 and went on to make 93 appearances for the Berlin club, establishing himself as one of the division’s most reliable goalkeepers.

The German is expected to become Feyenoord’s first-choice goalkeeper following Wellenreuther’s departure, with Liam Bossin providing competition. The Rotterdam club could still enter the transfer market in search of additional goalkeeping cover before the new season begins.

Looking ahead to his unveiling, Ernst admitted he is eager to experience Feyenoord’s famous supporters and the club’s traditional open day celebration.

“I can’t wait to take my place between the posts at De Kuip. I know the European matches here are experienced with incredible intensity, and Feyenoord is renowned for that not only in the Netherlands but across Europe. I’m really looking forward to arriving at De Kuip by helicopter on Saturday and meeting the supporters for the first time. It can’t come soon enough.”

Feyenoord head into the 2026-27 campaign under returning manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who replaced Robin van Persie following the conclusion of last season. The club have already secured direct qualification for the UEFA Champions League league phase and will begin their Eredivisie campaign on 9 August with a home clash against Sparta Rotterdam.