FC Köln’s race against time: Okon-Engstler nears medical ahead of pre-season
FC Köln faces a tight timeline: Paul Okon-Engstler, the Geißböcke’s incoming signing, must clear his medical before the squad departs for pre-season training in Austria. The 21-year-old Australian, who has already featured for his national team, has been sidelined by a stubborn flu. A recent photo with his brother Gianluca, who plays for Club Brugge, suggests his treatment in Belgium may be complete.
But the clock is ticking. The FC squad leaves for training camp on Friday – and Okon-Engstler needs clearance by Thursday. Sporting director René Wagner admitted on Wednesday: „If the lad signs here, I can expect him to play. Until then, my hands are tied.“
Why Köln is banking on the Aussie
Okon-Engstler is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder whose strengths lie in passing and forward momentum, despite lining up as a defensive midfielder. Wagner sees parallels to Denis Huseinbasic, who was sold to SC Braga. „A player like Okon-Engstler is exactly what we’re missing right now“, Wagner said. While Tom Krauß and Ellyes Skhiri cover deeper roles, Okon-Engstler’s ability to dictate play could be a game-changer.
Born in Belgium and with family ties there, the 21-year-old could bring fresh energy to Köln’s midfield. His 17-year-old brother Gianluca plays for Club Brugge – a sign of the family’s footballing pedigree. Whether Okon-Engstler arrives in time remains unclear.
Luka Lochoshvili set for FC debut – and Wagner is impressed
While Okon-Engstler’s future hangs in the balance, Wagner can at least welcome one new face: Luka Lochoshvili. The Georgian, already eligible, has impressed in training. „Locho is very strong in the air, aggressive without the ball, and comfortable on it“, Wagner praised. „He ticks every box we asked for.“
But the 28-year-old must still find his feet in the squad. Wagner noted: „Like any new signing, he needs time to settle. The training camp will help.“ His debut is imminent – but Okon-Engstler’s presence is still up in the air.
The sprint to the finish: Can Okon-Engstler still join?
Thursday will reveal whether Okon-Engstler clears his medical. If fit, he could still travel to Austria. If not, Wagner remains cautiously optimistic. „We’ll wait and hope it works out“, he said.
Köln urgently needs midfield reinforcement. Whether Okon-Engstler is the answer will be decided in the coming days. One thing is certain: the club’s patience is limited – but the player’s health comes first.
