Fabio Gruber joins Mainz 05

1. FSV Mainz 05 have signed Fabio Gruber. The 23-year-old centre-back and Peru international joins from 1. FC Nürnberg, where he captained the side. Augsburg-born Gruber made 41 2. Bundesliga appearances for Nürnberg after joining at the start of 2025, playing the full 90 minutes in 38 of those games. He had already worn the captain’s armband at his previous club, third-tier side SC Verl.

“A young centre-back with outstanding character, who defends with real authority and is composed in possession”

Mainz sporting director Niko Bungert said: “In Fabio Gruber, we are signing a young centre-back with outstanding character, who defends with real authority and is composed in possession. He has already shown real leadership qualities at his previous clubs. With his strengths as a player and the experience he has already gained despite his young age, he will strengthen our defence. We’re delighted that Fabio sees his future with us.”

Fabio Gruber said: “I had very good conversations with Urs Fischer and the club right from the start. I’m obviously really looking forward to the Bundesliga, to this new challenge here in Mainz, to getting to know the city, the club and the fans, and to getting to work with my new teammates after the summer break.”