From prospect to pillar: Chaves extends Hoffenheim journey

TSG 1899 Hoffenheim have secured the long-term future of Brazilian defender Arthur Chaves, extending his contract until 2029.

Arthur Chaves has extended his contract with TSG Hoffenheim on a long-term basis. The 24-year-old central defender’s new contract is reportedly valid until 2029 and includes an increased salary as well as a release clause.

Andreas Schicker, Managing Director of Sport at Hoffenheim, explains: “We are delighted that Arthur [Chaves] has clearly committed to our path with his early contract extension and sees his future here in Hoffenheim. We are convinced that his sporting development is far from complete, that he still has a lot of potential and that we will be successful together.”

Chaves moved to Hoffenheim in August 2024 from partner club Academico Viseu from the Portuguese second division for a then surprisingly high transfer fee of €6 million – his market value at the time was around €1.2 million, according to Transfermarkt.

The Brazilian repaid this investment, quickly establishing himself in the starting eleven and making 34 appearances and scoring two goals for the Kraichgauers.

Chaves impressed not only with his defensive stability but also with his work rate and consistency. According to statistics cited by AS, he won 57.6% of ground duels, 53.9% of aerial duels, and registered 116 interceptions and 401 ball recoveries.

His performances attracted attention from English clubs during the winter transfer window, with offers reportedly in the range of €10-15 million. However, Hoffenheim were never interested in letting him go so soon – and that hasn’t changed in this summer transfer window.