Jong Genk has secured the services of defender Martin Wasinski on loan from Schalke 04 until the end of the season. The club has also negotiated a purchase option for four additional seasons. With his experience in the Jupiler Pro League, the former youth international is expected to play a key role in helping Jong Genk maintain its position in the Challenger Pro League.
Wasinski, at a young age, already accumulated 48 top-flight appearances in Belgium during his time with Charleroi and KV Kortrijk. He was also a consistent performer for the national youth teams in the past. His impressive development earned him a move to German powerhouse Schalke 04. At just 20 years old, the central defender already boasts an impressive résumé and is set to bring valuable experience to Jong Genk for the remainder of the season.
“KRC Genk is one of the top clubs in Belgium. It’s no secret that young players like myself are given plenty of opportunities here. In my discussions with the club, I felt a strong sense of ambition. Like the club, I enjoy attacking and attractive football. My goal is to help Jong Genk stay in the Challenger Pro League this season, and I hope to prove myself here in the coming seasons as well,” said the ambitious young defender.
Following Kenshin Yasuda, Lorenzo Youndje, and Myung-jun Kim, Wasinski becomes the fourth addition to Jong Genk during this winter transfer window.
Nolan Martens Joins Excelsior Rotterdam
On Thursday afternoon, it was also announced that Nolan Martens is leaving Jong Genk to embark on a new journey with Excelsior Rotterdam in the Dutch second division. Martens has been a part of KRC Genk’s Talent Academy since 2016 and has been a key player for Jong Genk in recent years. Last summer, Excelsior Rotterdam had already shown interest in signing Nolan, but the club decided to retain him at the time. With his contract set to expire at the end of this season, Martens informed the club of his desire to pursue the opportunity in the Netherlands.
“I’ve had nine wonderful years at KRC Genk. The experience I’ve gained here will stay with me for the rest of my career, both as a footballer and beyond. I was eager to take on this new challenge in the Netherlands to continue my development as a player. I want to thank the club for all the opportunities I’ve received here,” said Martens.
The club is confident that there is enough young talent ready to step up and fill the void left by Martens’ departure.