Story Summary
HIFK have reportedly entered the pursuit of Liiga players Leevi Tukiainen and Jere Väisänen ahead of next season. Esko Seppänen said HIFK, led by general manager Janne Laukkanen, have shown strong interest in both players.
Seppänen suggested it would not be surprising to see both at HIFK next season if neither moves abroad. He nevertheless described an overseas move as the likelier outcome for Tukiainen, who has been producing at a rate of 35 to 40 goals and has scored nine goals in 16 games for JYP this season.
Väisänen, 26, has recorded nine goals and nine assists in 18 games for Kiekko-Espoo.
Key Facts
- HIFK have reportedly joined the pursuit of Leevi Tukiainen and Jere Väisänen for next season.
- Esko Seppänen said HIFK general manager Janne Laukkanen has entered the chase for both players.
- Leevi Tukiainen has scored nine goals and 10 points in 16 games for JYP this season.
- Seppänen described an overseas destination as the most likely scenario for Tukiainen next season.
IHM Discussion
This is interest rather than a completed move, but it places HIFK alongside the clubs monitoring two players who have made substantial early attacking contributions in Liiga. The two cases should not be treated identically. Seppänen’s view was that Tukiainen is particularly likely to attract an opportunity outside Finland, while Väisänen’s current production for Kiekko-Espoo has also put him on HIFK’s radar.
That coaching situation remains unconfirmed, as does any agreement involving either player.
Why It Matters
For HIFK, the reported interest identifies two active Liiga performers as possible targets for next season. Tukiainen’s nine goals in 16 appearances and Väisänen’s 18 points in 18 games make their current campaigns relevant to any eventual recruitment process.
For the players’ present clubs, there is no reported transaction or departure. Both remain with their current teams, and the prospect of a move abroad is an important uncertainty in Tukiainen’s case.
Mini Q&A
Which players have HIFK reportedly targeted?
HIFK have reportedly shown interest in JYP’s Leevi Tukiainen and Kiekko-Espoo’s Jere Väisänen for next season.
What are their current Liiga numbers?
Tukiainen has nine goals and 10 points in 16 games for JYP, while Väisänen has nine goals and nine assists in 18 games for Kiekko-Espoo.
Is either move complete?
No completed transfer has been reported, and Tukiainen is considered likely to have overseas options.