Eintracht Frankfurt Secure Noah Atubolu Loan as Al Ittihad Target Ritsu Doan

• Eintracht Frankfurt have announced the loan signing of Noah Atubolu (24) from Freiburg
• Atubolu has made 125 appearances across all competitions for Freiburg and is expected to become Eintracht’s No.1 goalkeeper
• Al Ittihad FC are working to sign Ritsu Doan (28), with their latest proposal worth €18m, but there is still no green light from Eintracht Frankfurt

Atubolu Arrives in Hessen

Eintracht Frankfurt have strengthened their goalkeeping department by bringing in Noah Atubolu (24) on loan from Freiburg. The move adds another experienced option to the Hessen club’s squad, with Atubolu arriving after making 125 appearances across all competitions for Freiburg.

Eintracht board member for sport Markus Krösche welcomed the signing and highlighted both the goalkeeper’s pedigree and development potential.

“In Noah Atubolu, we’re gaining a strong, ambitious and yet already very experienced goalkeeper. He brings great potential, mentality and the quality to give our team an important boost. We’re confident that Noah will take the next step in his development with us and strengthen our team,” expressed board member for sport Markus Krösche.

Alles in besten Händen. Vertrag ist unterschrieben.#SGE pic.twitter.com/cu0pqLLgnh

— Eintracht Frankfurt (@Eintracht) August 28, 2026

Goalkeeper Hierarchy and Permanent Move Conditions

According to Kicker, Atubolu is set to become Eintracht’s No.1 goalkeeper, moving ahead of Kaua Santos and Michael Zetterer in the pecking order. The structure of the deal also carries longer-term implications: after signing a contract extension with Freiburg – a step taken to avoid losing the German on a free transfer in 2027 – Atubolu will join the Hessen club permanently if certain conditions are met.

Atubolu also spoke positively about his switch to Frankfurt, emphasising his familiarity with the club and surroundings.

“I’m very happy to be here and can’t wait to get started at Eintracht Frankfurt. I know the city, the club and the stadium, and have always found it special playing here. I’m really looking forward to the new challenge.”

Doan Interest Adds Another Transfer Thread

In the meantime, Al Ittihad FC are working to sign Ritsu Doan (28) as a replacement for Moussa Diaby. Their latest proposal to Eintracht has been worth €18m.

German coach Jens Wissing, who knows Doan very well from their time together at PSV Eindhoven, wants him. The Japanese international is keen on a move to Saudi Arabia. However, there is still no green light from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Transfer Details