Austria signs striker Julian Hettwer

Austria are bolstering their attack with the signing of Julian Hettwer. The 23-year-old German is joining the Veilchen on a free transfer from Fortuna Düsseldorf and has signed a contract running until summer 2030.

Born in Bochum, he came through the youth academies of VfL Bochum and FC Schalke 04 during his youth, before joining MSV Duisburg at the age of 15 to continue his training.

His impressive performances eventually caught the attention of BVB, who signed the then German U19 international in 2023. Playing for Borussia Dortmund’s reserve team in the 3. Liga, Hettwer made 62 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing 16 assists. In the summer of 2025, he moved to Fortuna Düsseldorf in the 2. Bundesliga.

Last season was cut short by a meniscus injury, which is why Hettwer was only able to make a few appearances for Fortuna Düsseldorf. Now that he has made a full recovery, the attacking player is keen to take the next step in his career at Austria Vienna and build on his strong performances from recent years.

"I’m really pleased to be here. I’ve already had the chance to meet one or two of the players; now it’s a matter of getting to know the whole team and the club environment, and of course the fans too – I’m looking forward to that just as much. We want to have a successful season together, and I’d like to play an active part in that by getting as much playing time as possible," says Julian Hettwer.

Sporting CEO Tomas Zorn: “Julian Hettwer fits the profile we were looking for in a striker perfectly. He brings a lot of dynamism and pace to the team, is versatile in attack and has already demonstrated his goal-scoring ability on numerous occasions. We are convinced that he can strengthen our team straight away and are delighted that, despite other offers, he has chosen Austria Vienna and signed a long-term contract.”