Isaac Schmidt’s move to Leeds United is the “most important transfer in the history” of FC St. Gallen.
That’s according to their president Matthias Hüppi, via Blue News, who has heaped praise on the deal taking the defender to Leeds on deadline day.
Schmidt competed a move to Elland Road on Friday after reports earlier this week had linked Leeds with the 24-year-old left-back.
Blue News now cover the reaction back in Switzerland, where it seems everyone at St. Gallen is happy about the deal.
“In economic terms, this is probably the most important transfer in the history of our club,” Hüppi is quoted on saying about the deal.
according to information from Blick, that deal will see Leeds paying around €4m for the defender, although that could grow to €5.5m through bonuses.
That €4m base fee sees Schmidt top the previous record of €3.93m they received for Charles Amoah from Sturm Graz in the 2000/01 season. The third highest is Cedric Itten’s €3m move to Glasgow Rangers.
It is easy to see why everyone at the club are happy with what they’ve got, and it seems they’re also wishing their former player the best at Leeds too.
“Of course, Isaac’s departure so close to the end of the transfer window hurts us, but this move to England is a great opportunity for him,” added sports director Roger Stilz.
“Most importantly, Isaac has earned this move with his performance and commitment. We would like to thank him very much for his great commitment to Grünweiss.”
It now remains to be seen how Schmidt gets on at Elland Road moving forward and if he can justify his new status as St. Gallen’s record sale.
