Benfica Nears Deal for Cologne's Jakub Kaminski Amid Transfer Race

Portuguese giants BenficaTeam·Benfica are reportedly on the cusp of completing a significant transfer, with Polish winger Jakub KaminskiPlayer·Jakub Kaminski from FC Köln emerging as their primary target. The 24-year-old attacker, who impressed during the recent BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga season, is understood to be nearing a move that would see BenficaTeam·Benfica activate his €20 million release clause.

Kaminski's journey to this pivotal transfer window began with a successful loan spell at FC Köln from WolfsburgTeam·Wolfsburg during the 2025/26 season. His performances were instrumental for the German club, as he registered seven goals and five assists across 36 appearances in all competitions, including 34 BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga matches. Following this impactful period, Cologne exercised their purchase option, securing Kaminski permanently for €5.5 million. However, this permanent deal included a €20 million (£17.3m) release clause, which is set to expire in mid-July, creating a window of opportunity for interested clubs.

While BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga side RB LeipzigTeam·RB Leipzig and Premier LeagueCompetition·Premier League club Brighton & Hove AlbionTeam·Brighton & Hove Albion have also shown considerable interest in the versatile attacker, BenficaTeam·Benfica appears to have moved decisively. According to reports, the Lisbon-based club has already reached an agreement with Kaminski on a long-term contract, and negotiations with FC Köln are in their final stages. This development positions BenficaTeam·Benfica strongly to finalize the transfer in the coming days.

Kaminski has previously expressed a clear ambition for his career trajectory, particularly a move to England's top flight. "My dream has always been to play in the BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga, but after 104 matches and four seasons, my next dream is the Premier LeagueCompetition·Premier League. It's the best league in the world, I would like to test myself there and see how I perform," Kaminski stated. FC Köln's sporting director, Thomas Kessler, is reportedly aware of the widespread interest in the player and maintains close contact with Kaminski's representatives.

FC Köln endured a challenging 2025/26 BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga campaign, finishing in 14th place with 32 points. The team lost 47.06% of their matches and concluded the season without a win in their last five consecutive BundesligaCompetition·Bundesliga fixtures. Kaminski's contributions were a bright spot in a season where the team averaged 1.4 goals per game while conceding 1.85. His departure would undoubtedly leave a significant void for Cologne, but it represents a substantial financial gain following his initial €5.5 million acquisition.