FC Koln are targeting PSV Eindhoven's Kiliann Sildillia as a potential reinforcement for the left-back position. This was reported by 'Express' this week, just before the transfer window closes on September 1.
The Bundesliga club's management wants to provide additional competition for Gideon Mensah, who joined on a free transfer from AJ Auxerre in the summer. The 28-year-old has not fully convinced in the early season matches. In parallel, efforts continue to sign 18-year-old attacking talent Mikey Moore from Tottenham Hotspur. The next sporting challenge is an away match at VfB Stuttgart on September 4.
Who is Kiliann Sildillia?
Kiliann Sildillia is a 24-year-old French defender currently under contract at PSV Eindhoven. He gained four years of Bundesliga experience with SC Freiburg between 2021 and 2025. Although he normally plays on the right side, 'Express' sees him as a potential candidate for the left centre-back role, where he could quickly become a regular starter. His current club PSV reportedly rejected a loan inquiry from Werder Bremen and is seeking a permanent sale if he leaves.
What is the defensive personnel situation?
The search for a left-back is taking place against a specific backdrop. On the right side, Sildillia's natural position, the club sees no urgent need. Sebastian Sebulonsen and Alessio Castro-Montes are two experienced players available there. However, Sebulonsen is currently injured, a situation that adds to an absentee list which also includes Luca Waldschmidt, Timo Hübers and Linton Maina. Should Sildillia arrive, the 29-year-old Castro-Montes could switch to the left side and compete with Mensah there, according to 'Express'. Castro-Montes showed last season he can play the left-back position. Jan Thielmann or Joel Schmied are mentioned as internal alternatives for the right-back role.
Which new signings has Koln already made?
FC Koln have already strengthened the squad for the 2026/2027 season with several new signings. The transfers include both experienced Bundesliga players and young talents. The overview of the commitments so far shows the range of activity.
| Player | Previous Club | Age | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jahmai Simpson-Pusey | Manchester City U21 | 20 | €6m |
| Luka Lochoshvili | 1. FC Nürnberg | 28 | €4.9m |
| Tom Krauß | 1. FSV Mainz 05 | 25 | €3.5m |
| Reigan Heskey | Manchester City U12 | 18 | €2m |
| Paul Okon-Engstler | Sydney FC | 21 | €1.75m |
| Gideon Mensah | AJ Auxerre | 27 | Free |
| Martin James | Paris Saint-Germain U23 | 18 | Free |
| Gil Neves | Benfica Lisbon U23 | 18 | Unknown |
This mix of youth and experience is intended to give the team more depth. You can view the current squad and detailed statistics on our squad page.
What does this mean for the final days of the transfer window?
Time is running out for Koln's decision-makers, as the transfer window closes on the evening of September 1. Negotiations for Mikey Moore from north London's Tottenham are ongoing. At the same time, the sporting leadership must weigh whether a move for Sildillia makes sense, especially considering Sebastian Sebulonsen's injury and the option to reposition Castro-Montes. The coming days will show whether either of these options can be realised before the squad for the upcoming fixtures is finalised. Planning for the next game in Stuttgart and further fixtures can be found on our fixtures overview.
