Cologne close €1.5m deal to plug midfield void with Skhiri

Officially, 31‑year‑old Tunisian midfielder Ellyes Skhiri has rejoined 1. FC Köln from Eintracht Frankfurt, returning to the Billy Goats after a three‑year spell away, with Sky Germany reporting a transfer fee of around €1.5 million and signing a contract that runs until 2028.

Cologne have been light on midfield options this season. Skhiri is therefore a welcome addition for Cologne, addressing that gap.

Deal terms and contract

The transfer fee is reported by Sky Germany at around €1.5 million. Of that amount, approximately €1 million is agreed as a fixed payment. Skhiri has signed a contract that runs until 2028.

Skhiri made 82 Bundesliga appearances for Frankfurt over three seasons. He also featured in 32 European matches, including the UEFA Champions League.

Upon Skhiri’s departure from Frankfurt, Sporting Director Timmo Hardung praised his attitude and professionalism. He noted that Skhiri had spent three years at the club.

Hardung said, “Ellyes always put the team first during the three years that he spent here, and his performances and professionalism made him an important part of the club.” He added that the club wishes him all the very best for the future, both on and off the pitch.

The move sees the 31‑year‑old return to the Billy Goats after three years away. Skhiri is a Tunisian midfielder.

The signing was confirmed as an official transfer by Cologne. The announcement followed Frankfurt’s Sporting Director Timmo Hardung’s expression of gratitude.