1. FC Köln have confirmed the departure of midfielder Jakub Kaminski to Benfica in a deal worth €20 million. The Bundesliga club announced that the Portuguese side triggered a release clause to complete the transfer, with the 24-year-old signing a contract until 2031.
Release clause activation
The German club officially verified the move on their website, noting that the fixed transfer fee was activated via a clause in the player’s contract. This allowed Benfica to secure the Poland international without prolonged negotiation.
Kaminski leaves Köln after a single season in which he established himself as a key contributor. The 31-cap international scored seven goals and provided five assists during the recent Bundesliga campaign, operating primarily as an attacking midfielder or winger.
Rapid profit for Köln
The transfer represents significant business for Köln. The club signed Kaminski permanently from VfL Wolfsburg last summer for €5.5 million following a successful loan spell, meaning they have secured a profit of €14.5 million on the player within twelve months.
The €20 million fee provides a substantial financial boost as Köln prepare for the upcoming season. However, they must now replace a player who featured prominently in their midfield during the previous campaign.
Benfica, who regularly compete in the UEFA Champions League, have secured the versatile attacker on a long-term six-year deal. The move offers Kaminski the opportunity to test himself in the Portuguese Primeira Liga and European competition, while Köln benefit from the significant return on their initial investment.