BSC Young Boys have decided against triggering the purchase option for loanee Chris Bedia, meaning the striker will return to Bundesliga side Union Berlin, according to a report from Kicker. The Swiss champions had the opportunity to sign the Ivorian forward permanently following his six-month spell at the Wankdorf Stadium, but have opted not to proceed with the clause.
Bedia joined Young Boys during the winter transfer window as part of a loan agreement that included a buy option. The move was intended to provide additional firepower for YB's attack in the second half of the season. However, the 27-year-old struggled to adapt to the Swiss Super League, managing only occasional appearances and failing to score consistently. Although the exact financial terms of the purchase clause were not disclosed, it is clear that Young Boys did not see sufficient return on investment to justify a permanent deal.
Sources close to the club, as reported by Kicker, confirm that YB management have formally communicated their decision to Union Berlin. This ensures Bedia will return to his parent club once his loan officially expires at the end of June. The writing had been on the wall for some time, with Bedia slipping down the pecking order under coach Raphael Wicky and being left out of crucial matches towards the tail end of the campaign.
For Union Berlin, Bedia's comeback presents a mixed scenario. The Köpenick-based club is currently battling to secure its Bundesliga status and could benefit from an additional striking option. Bedia is familiar with the tactical demands of head coach Nenad Bjelica, having spent the first half of the season at the club. However, Union’s attack has evolved, and Bedia may face stiff competition from established forwards. With his contract running until 2026, the summer will be critical in determining whether he remains part of Union's plans or is moved on permanently.
Bedia originally arrived at Union Berlin from Belgian outfit Union SG in January 2024, with high hopes pinned on his goal-scoring abilities. He had impressed in the Jupiler Pro League, prompting Union to invest in his services. His initial spell in the German capital was hampered by adaptation issues and limited service, leading to the loan to Young Boys. The stint in Switzerland was meant to rebuild his confidence and match fitness, but ultimately it did not yield the desired outcome for either party.
For Young Boys, the decision to pass on Bedia frees up resources as they plan for the new season. The club is expected to be active in the transfer market to find a more reliable goal-scorer who can lead the line in their domestic and European campaigns. Letting go of Bedia allows them to reallocate funds and a squad slot towards a player who better fits their long-term strategy.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on where Bedia lands next. While a return to Union Berlin is all but confirmed, his future beyond that remains up in the air. The player will need to impress during preseason to force his way into contention or seek opportunities elsewhere. For now, he will look to finish his time at Young Boys with professionalism before embarking on the next chapter of his career. Based on reporting from Kicker.