Lennard Maloney’s time at Heidenheim has come to an end, but the American midfielder will remain in the German Bundesliga.

Maloney has joined Mainz in a permanent deal from Heidenheim, both clubs announced Friday. The 25-year-old had been linked with a move to Mainz throughout the January Transfer Window and officially put pen to paper this week.

He signed a three-year contract until 2028.

“Lennard Maloney has been able to prove himself in the Bundesliga over the last year and a half,” said FSV sporting director Niko Bungert. “His preferred position is as a number six and as a player, he’s the perfect fit for Mainz 05. He brings a strong mentality, as well as a willingness to run hard, to the table and is also strong at winning challenges and aerial duels. Lennard will find it easy to fit into our squad with his warm, open personality.” 

Maloney featured in 85 matches for Heidenheim, helping the club earn promotion to the Bundesliga and also qualify for the UEFA Europa Conference League. He also featured for Union Berlin, Borussia Dortmund, and Chemnitzer in the past.

Internationally, Maloney previously featured for the U.S. and German youth national teams. He later committed his future to the United States and earned two senior caps in 2023.

“Mainz 05 are a great fit for me, from the style of play to their overall set-up,” said Maloney. “Sometimes, all it takes is one meeting with the sporting management and the head coach to know that you will get on well with each other. That was definitely the case here — I had a good feeling right from the start. Now, I’m looking forward to getting to know my new teammates, the fans and the city. I’m also excited to get to experience the MEWA ARENA, a place where Mainz are tough to beat, as a 05er.” 

Mainz sits seventh in the Bundesliga table.