Alex Kral moved to Berlin from recently-relegated Bundesliga 2 side Schalke 04. The Czech international performed well in his first year in Germany, and is a strong tackler and confident figure in defensive midfield. As a result of Rani Khedira's injury, Kral deputised as a defensive midfielder in the starting XI in the first two league fixtures.
Brenden Aaronson is also a new addition. The young American is on loan from Leeds United, having previously spent two years at Red Bull Salzburg under Jesse Marsch after an initial transfer from the Philadelphia Union in 2020. The technically gifted 22-year-old made 36 appearances as an attacking midfielder for Leeds in the Premier League. His strengths lie with his acceleration and pressing ability, and he is seen as one of the biggest young American talents.
Lucas Tousart switched allegiances from Hertha BSC to Union Berlin in the summer. The Frenchman was a regular in Hertha's defensive midfield for the past three years, and scored nine competitive goals for the club. The 26-year-old will always put his body on the line in a 1-v-1, and has already got multiple Europa League and Champions League appearances for Olympique Lyon on his CV. However, Tousart was forced to miss large parts of pre-season due to a thigh injury.
David Datro Fofana also moved to the capital on loan from Chelsea. The 20-year-old youngster is versatile in attack and made his breakthrough last year. After he scored 21 goals for Molde FK in Norway, Chelsea seized the opportunity and secured the services of the Ivory Coast international in
January 2023. In England, the pacy youngster got only limited playing time, but now he has the chance to show his qualities in Berlin.
Danish striker Mikkel Kaufmann moved to Berlin from Karlsruher SC. Another attacking reinforcement is Benedict Hollerbach, who arrived from recently promoted second-tier side SV Wehen Wiesbaden. In addition, the club secured the services of goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow (previously at FC Schalke 04).