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FC Köln before departure: Southampton offers record sum for Downs!
Southampton are planning to transfer Damion Downs from 1. FC Köln for €8 million, while Cologne are working on a contract extension.
FC Köln before departure: Southampton offers record sum for Downs!
1. FC Köln is facing an important decision. Negotiations with Premier League club Southampton are currently showing serious signs of signing striker Damion Downs (20). Southampton have offered a transfer fee of a whopping eight million euros for the talented attacker, which is putting noticeable pressure on FC Cologne's negotiating position. A look at his past performances makes it clear why Downs is the focus of the English team: last season he scored 11 goals and added 6 more in 32 appearances. A truly brilliant result for a player of his age.
But here's the rub: Downs' contract with FC Köln only runs for one year. While negotiations over a contract extension are ongoing and sporting director Thomas Kessler has reportedly made a new offer, this has so far been rejected by Downs. There are rumors that an increase in his salary conditions is on the cards, but no real progress is yet in sight. In view of the impending departure of Dejan Ljubicic and Tim Lemperle, who moved to TSG Hoffenheim on a free transfer, FC Köln has to compensate for a crucial loss.
Southern English promotion dreamer
Southampton, who remain a respected training club since relegation from the Premier League, are actively looking for reinforcements to tackle their immediate promotion campaign. With a renowned sporting director like Johannes Spors, who has only been on board since February, Downs' move could represent a real opportunity for everyone involved. The English have had impressive success in the past with players like Virgil van Dijk, Gareth Bale and Sadio Mané and know how to develop talent.
The discussion about a possible transfer quota is extremely explosive for Cologne. Only 15 times in the past have the club achieved transfer fees of €5 million or more and that opportunity could now present itself. Even if the price of eight million euros seems tempting for a player with just one year of contract, FC Cologne is pushing for a quick decision. An advantageous situation for 1. FC Köln could be to sell Downs before his contract expires.
Will Downs stay in Cologne?
Next week could be crucial, especially since Downs is currently on the U.S. national team roster competing in the Gold Cup. The loss of Downs would be noticeable for FC Köln, but coach Keller said that the departure could be “bearable”. The dilemma remains: However, if Downs is willing to hold a regular place at Southampton, his transfer from Cologne could become a reality.
Fans and teammates will be eagerly awaiting developments, with both the sporting and financial aspects of the transfer playing a role. A good hand is also required here, but in the world of football nothing is permanent until the ink is dry. All eyes now remain on the outcome of the negotiations.