Hartberg announced on Friday evening that Elias Havel has moved to Serie A side CFC Genoa – a deal worth roughly €2 million that again highlights the TSV’s role as a talent exporter.

How did the transfer happen?

Elias Havel, 23, arrived on loan from LASK in summer 2024. After a mixed start, the loan was extended in July 2025 and he broke through in the 2025/26 season, finishing as the third‑highest scorer in the Austrian Bundesliga with 13 goals in 30 appearances. In March 2026 Hartberg exercised a purchase option for €300 000, with LASK reportedly sharing in the subsequent sale.

Why does the deal matter for Hartberg?

President Erich Korherr highlighted that Havel worked hard after an early injury and his pace and instinct attracted interest from Europe’s top‑5 leagues. The €2 million fee follows closely on the heels of Tom Ritzy Hülsmann’s €2.5 million move to Reims, underscoring Hartberg’s strategy of developing and selling young talent.

What does this mean for the current season?

Hartberg currently sits 6th in the Bundesliga with 33 points from 22 games (8 wins, 9 draws, 5 losses). The team has scored 29 goals and conceded 24, a +5 goal difference. Despite losing Havel, they remain five points behind leaders Sturm Graz in the title race. The departure may thin the attack, but the club sees the revenue as a chance to reinvest.

What lies ahead for Havel in Genoa?

CFC Genoa, sitting 16th in the concluded Serie A season, gave no contract length but included a release clause. The striker is expected to join the starting eleven immediately, adding speed to the Italian side’s offense. Coach Daniele De Rossi will likely deploy him as a centre‑forward, allowing Havel to further hone his scoring instincts.

Hartberg stays optimistic. The club plans to channel the transfer income into youth development and hopes to uncover more prospects this summer who can make the leap to Europe’s top leagues.