Hertha BSC are set to lose another key player: Tjark Ernst is on the verge of completing a move to Feyenoord Rotterdam. Final formalities — including the medical examination — are being finalized this week. The 20-year-old striker’s departure ends his brief but impactful spell in Berlin after just one season.

What’s happening with Hertha BSC right now?

Feyenoord activated Ernst’s €5 million release clause, securing the rights to sign him immediately. The Dutch giants are pushing to wrap up the deal swiftly, with the medical scheduled for this week. Internal sources confirm the move is imminent. Hertha currently sit 7th in the 2. Bundesliga with zero points from zero games played. Their next fixture — a trip to 1. FC Kaiserslautern on October 31, 2026 — looms large. Last season, Ernst was one of Hertha’s few bright spots up front, scoring six goals in 28 league games.

Why Ernst’s exit stings for Hertha BSC

Ernst was a rare bright spot in a difficult season. His six goals in 28 games stood out in a struggling 2. Bundesliga attack. Now, his departure leaves a gap up front — especially as Hertha also grapple with injuries early in the new campaign. While the €5 million fee provides a financial boost, losing a talent of his profile is a setback.

Berlin must act fast to fill the void. The transfer window remains open, but competition in the 2. Bundesliga is fierce. Clubs like 1. FC Kaiserslautern and Hamburger SV could also target young strikers to bolster their squads.

What’s next for Hertha BSC?

The medical is next — a standard step in transfers of this kind. If it passes, Ernst could be officially unveiled by Feyenoord within days. The Rotterdam side are banking on the young German to strengthen their attack after scoring just 45 goals last season.

For Hertha BSC, the search for a replacement begins now. The club will weigh whether to promote from within or bring in a new face. Their next match — away to Kaiserslautern on October 31, 2026 — will test how quickly they can plug the gap. With zero points and zero goals so far this season, the pressure on the squad is already intense.