FC Köln has secured the services of Dutch centre-back Rav van den Berg from English Championship side Middlesbrough. The 21-year-old has penned a five-year contract with the Bundesliga club, extending his commitment until 2030.
Van den Berg’s transfer is reported to be valued at €8 million, with an additional €2 million in potential add-ons, making it one of the club’s most substantial investments in recent years.
This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to bolster Köln’s defense as they aim to solidify their position in Germany’s top-flight football.
Sporting Director Thomas Kessler expressed his satisfaction with the signing, highlighting van den Berg’s attributes that align with the club’s defensive needs. “We had Rav on our list for a long time and are really pleased that he has decided to join 1. FC Köln. We are convinced that he will help us with his quality. Despite his young age, Rav has a lot of valuable experience from the Championship. He is strong, athletic and is good in the tackle as well as playing out from the back. With his profile, he will give our backline increased stability and flexibility,” Kessler remarked.
Van den Berg, reflecting on his decision to join Köln, emphasized the role of Kessler in his move. “Thomas Kessler played a big role in my decision to join FC. From the very start, he gave me the feeling that the club absolutely wants to have me play here,” van den Berg stated. He further expressed his enthusiasm about the move, saying, “I am really looking forward to taking the next big step in my career – and that is for 1. FC Köln.”
Born on July 7, 2004, in Zwolle, Netherlands, van den Berg began his football journey at PEC Zwolle, progressing through their youth ranks before making his Eredivisie debut at the age of 16.
His performances caught the attention of Middlesbrough, leading to a transfer in 2023. During his tenure in England, he made 61 appearances for Boro, showcasing his defensive prowess and earning accolades such as the club’s Player of the Year award for the 2023-24 season.
Internationally, van den Berg has represented the Netherlands at various youth levels, including the U15, U16, U18, U19, U20, and U21 teams, accumulating a total of eight caps.