Eintracht Frankfurt are prepared to sell midfielder Ellyes Skhiri to 1.FC Köln for a fee between €1.5million and €2million, according to Sky Germany. The potential move hinges on the outcome of Köln’s pursuit of West Ham United’s Edson Álvarez, with negotiations for the Mexican international currently ongoing.
Skhiri previously played for 1.FC Köln between 2019 and 2023, establishing himself as a key player during his four seasons with the club. He made over 100 appearances for the Billygoats, becoming a fan favourite with his combative midfield play and ability to contribute goals from midfield. He departed for Frankfurt on a free transfer last summer.
Since joining Eintracht Frankfurt, Skhiri has been a regular in the starting lineup, featuring in 32 Bundesliga matches and contributing with two goals and three assists. He played a significant role in Frankfurt’s push for European qualification, though they ultimately finished seventh. However, Eintracht are now seemingly open to his departure.
Köln manager René Wagner is reportedly keen to bring Skhiri back to the RhineEnergie Stadion, viewing him as a valuable addition to the squad. The club were recently relegated from the Bundesliga, and Wagner will be looking to rebuild with experienced players who understand the league. Skhiri himself is understood to be eager to rejoin Köln, indicating a willingness to return to his former club.
Despite interest from other clubs, Skhiri’s preference for a return to Köln could accelerate the deal should Álvarez’s transfer to West Ham fall through. Köln are prioritising the Álvarez deal, but have a prepared agreement with Frankfurt for Skhiri as a contingency. The transfer would provide Skhiri with a familiar environment and a chance to contribute to Köln’s immediate efforts to regain promotion to the Bundesliga.
