Mainz 05 set Deadline for Sano Sale
Mainz 05 have decided that Kaishu Sano will only be allowed to leave until around August 27. The reason is that the Bundesliga club want enough time to find and sign a replacement for the Japan international. "We won't sell him on August 31. We still need to be able to react," Mainz sporting director Christian Heidel told Bild.
Why it matters
Mainz 05 want enough time to find a replacement for Sano. The Japan international is under contract until 2028. "Of course, an offer could come in that we simply can't turn down. But we'll be happy if nothing comes," Heidel said.
What comes next?
Mainz 05 have already received interest from Liverpool and RB Leipzig. The Saxony-based side, however, look highly unlikely to meet Mainz' demands. A move to a Premier League club with greater financial muscle therefore appears more realistic.
Current situation
Mainz 05 are currently 10th in the Bundesliga table, with 40 points and 14 losses. In their last five games, they have won three and lost two. They recently beat 1. FC Heidenheim 0:2. Kaishu Sano is currently not injured, but Paul Nebel has been sidelined since the last game.
Statistics
- Bundesliga table (final 2025): 10th, 40 points, 10 wins, 10 draws, 14 losses
- Goals this season: 44 scored, 53 conceded (-9 goal difference)
- Title race: 49 points behind leaders Bayern München
- Last result: 1. FC Heidenheim 0-2 FSV Mainz 05 (2026-05-16)
- Recent form (last 5): 3W-0D-2L (WWLLW, most recent first); on a 2-game winning run
