FC Köln brings in Jóhannesson: million dollar deal with Fortuna Düsseldorf!
1. FC Köln signed Ísak Jóhannesson from Fortuna Düsseldorf for 5.5 million euros. Contract until 2030.

FC Köln brings in Jóhannesson: million dollar deal with Fortuna Düsseldorf!
1. FC Köln has brought a breath of fresh air with the transfer of Ísak Jóhannesson. The 22-year-old Icelander is moving from Fortuna Düsseldorf to the Rhine and has signed a contract until 2030. According to Transfer market The midfielder's release clause was activated, which cost FC Cologne 5.5 million euros. This marks the second new signing in this transfer window, after Ragnar Ache was signed from 1. FC Kaiserslautern for 4.5 million euros. The total expenditure for new players increases to 10 million euros.
The decision to move has not gone completely unnoticed. Thomas Kessler, sporting director of 1. FC Köln, praised Jóhannesson's development and skills. After a strong last year in which he scored 11 goals and provided 6 assists for Fortuna, his name was very popular. Klaus Allofs, sports director at Fortuna Düsseldorf, regrets the departure, but shows understanding for the talent's sporting development. There are mixed reactions to the change among Fortuna fans.
A talented newcomer
Jóhannesson is no stranger to the pitch. The creative midfielder has developed greatly in recent years and was one of the most dangerous offensive players in the 2nd Bundesliga last season. His high mileage of an average of 12 km per game speaks for his commitment and fitness. The Icelander, who has been playing for the Icelandic national team for 17 years and has won 33 international matches, only came to Düsseldorf from FC Copenhagen in 2024 for 2 million euros. He has already celebrated great success with Copenhagen, including two championships and a cup win, as well as experience in the Champions League.
His move to Cologne is seen as a significant step in his career. SC Paderborn's new coach, Lukas Kwasniok, has already publicly expressed his admiration for Jóhannesson and wanted to have him on his team as well. These outstanding performances and the player's potential have drawn the attention of not only 1. FC Köln, but also other clubs in the league.
A look into the past
Over the years there have been hardly any transfers between Cologne and Düsseldorf. Since 2000, only two players have moved between the two clubs, Adam Matuszczyk and Thomas Bröker, making Jóhannesson's move a notable event. The transfer shows that FC Köln is able to be active on the transfer market and attract interesting talent.
Those responsible at 1. FC Köln are confident that Jóhannesson will play a crucial role in the coming season. He is the first Icelandic professional player in the club's history and will surely quickly win the fans' hearts. Review online reported that Jóhannesson was even flown in on a private plane to complete the transfer on time.
Football fans can be excited to see how the new addition to the Geißbockheim will present itself. The anticipation for the new season is growing and hopes rest on this talented player. Who knows, maybe he will become the new star of 1. FC Köln? Stay tuned to follow all developments – as always, quickly and up to date Football Transfers.