FC Koln has strengthened its squad with three young top talents from the Premier League as part of a new transfer strategy. Jahmai Simpson-Pusey (20), Reigan Heskey (18) and Mikey Moore (19) have joined the Bundesliga club, according to a report by Bild.
The signings come at an important time. FC Koln's next match is away at VfB Stuttgart on September 4, 2026. The complete schedule is available on our fixtures page.
Why are English talents moving to Cologne?
FC Koln has developed a targeted strategy to attract young players from England. While Premier League clubs regularly sign stars from the Bundesliga with multi-million packages, Cologne is now taking the opposite approach. The three new signings are considered promising talents who had already attracted attention at their home clubs.
According to the Bild report, several factors play a role. The club offers young players a clear perspective of Bundesliga appearances. This is often more difficult for talents in England, where competition at top teams is particularly fierce. Cologne's decision-makers have recognized this opportunity and are acting consistently.
Who are the new players?
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey is 20 years old and arrives as the oldest of the three new signings. The defensive midfielder or center-back already brings experience from English youth football. Reigan Heskey, son of former England international Emile Heskey, is the youngest of the trio at 18. The attacking player already shows great potential.
Mikey Moore completes the trio. The 19-year-old is a fast and technically skilled winger. All three players fit the profile that FC Koln has defined for its new strategy. They are to be integrated into the team long-term and continue their development.
What does the new transfer strategy look like?
The club is deliberately focusing on young, not yet established talents. These players can develop in Cologne and might even be sold for a profit later. It's a model that has already brought success to other Bundesliga clubs.
The decision-makers have recognized that the market for established stars is often overpriced. Instead, they invest in players with development potential. This strategy requires good scouting work and patience. But the first steps have already been taken with the three English players.
What does this mean for the squad?
The new signings enrich FC Koln's squad with fresh talent. They will probably initially be used in the second team or youth department to get used to German football. But the prospect of Bundesliga appearances is an important incentive.
The club has the opportunity with this strategy to bind and develop players long-term. This is particularly important in a league where financial resources are not unlimited. The current squad overview can be found on our squad page.
The next opportunity to perhaps see the new talents in the professional squad comes soon. After the away game in Stuttgart, further Bundesliga matches follow. Coach Steffen Baumgart's team is currently preparing intensively for these tasks. The three English newcomers are already training with the team and learning the club's structures.
