Cologne sign Reigan Heskey
Cologne have signed Reigan Heskey from Manchester City, the club have confirmed.
The 18-year-old, who is the son of former England international Emile Heskey, joins on a five-year deal that will keep him at the club until 30 June 2031.
"I was really keen to join Cologne to take the next step in my career. My discussions with the club officials have shown me that my style of play is a very good fit for the club," Heskey said.
"I’m looking forward to the challenge of the Bundesliga and want to make the most of this opportunity to prove myself here. I’m ready."
Heskey, who is primarily a left winger, has been prolific for City at youth level. In 87 games across the U18, U19 and U21 age groups, he has scored 41 goals, including nine in 15 in the UEFA Youth League. His efforts have also helped the Citizens win the FA Youth Cup and Premier League 2 in recent seasons.
"Reigan has developed superbly at Manchester City over the past few years and, given his qualities, is one of the best attacking players of his age group on the international stage. We are therefore all the more delighted that, during our discussions, we were able to convince him of the path we are taking together at Cologne," commented Cologne sporting director Thomas Kessler.
"René [Wagner] has set out a clear sporting plan for him and explained why FC Köln is exactly the right move for his continued development. The focus now is on successfully translating his exceptional qualities into professional football. We are absolutely convinced that he can do this.
"With his physical presence, pace, versatility in attack and keen eye for goal, Reigan possesses outstanding attributes. Together with our coaching team, we intend to develop him in a targeted manner over the coming years and are convinced that he will find the ideal conditions at FC to realise his great potential at the very highest level."
Football runs in the family, with father Emile scoring seven times in 62 caps for England while also playing for Liverpool and Leicester City in the English Premier League.
He is the Billy Goats' fifth permanent signing of the summer after Jahmai Simpson-Pusey (also from City), Luka Lochoshvili, Tom Krauß and Gideon Mensah, and could make his debut for his new club against Wurzburger Kickers in the DFB Cup first round on 24 August.
