Stroeykens says yes, Hazard and Verschaeren still waiting
THURSDAY, 9 OCTOBER 2025, 20:16 - lajoya
TRANSFERS Following Mario Stroeykens' contract extension until 2028, Anderlecht is looking to the future of two other key players: Thorgan Hazard and Yari Verschaeren. Both players have expiring contracts, but their situations differ greatly from that of Stroeykens.
This summer, 21-year-old Stroeykens had hoped for a transfer abroad, but no concrete interest materialized. A late offer from Portuguese club Braga proved insufficiently attractive. Because his contract expired at the end of this season, Anderlecht wanted to avoid a departure without compensation. The negotiations ultimately resulted in a new contract without a predetermined transfer fee.
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Continue reading The situation is more complex for Hazard (32) and Verschaeren (24). Their contracts also expire in the summer of 2026, but they currently earn considerably more than Stroeykens. According to sources within the club, Anderlecht no longer wants to continue the high wages of the past. Those who want to stay will therefore have to do so on reduced terms.
Although Anderlecht feels morally obliged to talk to both players, there are no concrete negotiations at this stage. The club is sticking to its economic course: no more monster contracts. Players who are unwilling to take a pay cut are free to leave – for free if necessary.
Stroeykens' contract extension is part of a broader strategic move within Anderlecht: to retain young talent at the club for longer, while experienced players can only stay under realistic financial conditions.
