FC Groningen has identified 21‑year‑old Slovak left‑back Nikolas Brandis as its next defensive signing. The player is set to leave AS Trencin, a club that finished at the bottom of the Niké Liga last season. Brandis wants the move to the Netherlands, but talks are still rocky.

Why is Brandis on the radar now?

Brandis has cemented a starting role at Trencin over the past two seasons, often using his attacking instincts to stretch the left flank. His background with Slovakia’s youth national teams makes him an appealing prospect for a side seeking more pace and creativity on the left. For FC Groningen, he offers a potential answer to the injury‑prone spot occupied by Wouter Prins.

How does Brandis fit into the current squad?

The Groningers sit 9th in the Eredivisie with 48 points from 34 games (14 W‑6 D‑14 L) and a recent form of WWLLD. With 49 goals scored and 45 conceded (+4), they are looking for more defensive solidity. Brandis would directly challenge Prins, who saw reduced minutes after Marvin Peersman moved to Telstar.

What does the transfer mean for the club?

If the deal goes through, FC Groningen gains a young, attack‑oriented full‑back who can contribute both defensively and further up the pitch. The club hopes Brandis will spark competition with Prins and raise the overall quality of the back line. Securing the Slovak also signals that Groningen remains an attractive destination for Central and Eastern European talent.

When could Brandis join?

Negotiations between FC Groningen and AS Trencin are still uneven, but the club stays confident a deal can be sealed soon. Should the transfer close this summer, Brandis could report to pre‑season camps and take part in preparations for the new campaign. Meanwhile, Groningen continues to explore short‑term options for the left side.

Live data (07‑07‑2026): FC Groningen sits 9th in the Eredivisie with 48 points, 14 wins, 6 draws and 14 losses, recent form WWLLD, 49 goals for and 45 against, 36 points behind PSV Eindhoven.