Rot-Weiss Essen reportedly showed very strong interest in German striker Erik Engelhardt. The 28-year-old had received several offers from other clubs. According to BILD, the club is considered very financially strong within the industry. It is believed that while in the 3. Liga, Essen can pay monthly salaries that would likely only be possible for his current club, Energie Cottbus, in the 2. Bundesliga. Engelhardt joined Energie Cottbus in January 2025, and his contract runs until 2027. He has one cap for the Germany U19 team. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €650k.