Jakub Kaminski has completed a permanent transfer from Wolfsburg to Köln, the Bundesliga club confirmed on Wednesday. The move follows a productive loan spell with Köln where the Polish winger played a key role in securing their Bundesliga status for another season. Bartol Franjic and Nicolas Cozza have also departed Wolfsburg on permanent deals, while Aster Vranckx and Andreas Skov Olsen spent the season on loan.
Kaminski, 23, enjoyed a breakthrough season in Köln, scoring seven league goals – surpassing his total of four league goals across his entire spell with Wolfsburg. His contributions were vital as Köln avoided relegation in their first season back in the Bundesliga, a feat that seemingly convinced the club to activate a permanent transfer. While Köln have yet to officially release a statement regarding the transfer, Wolfsburg’s announcement confirms Kaminski will remain in Germany’s top flight.
Franjic will join Serie A side Venezia after the Italian club secured promotion as Serie B champions. An obligation to buy clause in his loan agreement was triggered, ensuring a permanent move for the midfielder. Cozza’s destination is yet to be confirmed, but his loan spell with Nantes ended in disappointment as the club suffered relegation to Ligue 2, culminating in fan protests and a turbulent end to the season.
Wolfsburg have been actively reshaping their squad following their first-ever relegation from the Bundesliga, confirmed on Monday. The departures of Kaminski, Franjic, and Cozza represent three of six confirmed exits as the club prepares for life in the 2. Bundesliga. The club is expected to undergo further significant changes as they aim to rebuild and secure promotion back to the top tier. The moves allow Wolfsburg to free up wages and reshape the squad to compete in the second division.
Kaminski arrived at Wolfsburg in January 2022 from Lech Poznań, but struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter. His loan spell at Köln provided him with the platform to showcase his abilities, and the permanent transfer offers him a clear pathway for regular first-team football. This move represents a fresh start for the young winger, and a valuable addition for Köln as they look to build on their survival.
