- FC Köln are considering a move to re-sign Ellyes Skhiri from Eintracht Frankfurt should their pursuit of West Ham United’s Edson Álvarez fail, according to reports in Germany.
Sky Germany reported on Thursday that Köln had reached an agreement in principle to take Álvarez on loan, but the deal is not yet finalized due to the player’s wage expectations. The Bundesliga club are reportedly hesitant to meet Álvarez’s demands, leaving the door open for alternative targets.
Bild newspaper claim that Köln have identified Skhiri as a potential replacement, with Eintracht Frankfurt reportedly willing to allow the 31-year-old to depart for a fee of €2 million. Skhiri is said to be receptive to a return to the club where he spent four seasons.
The Tunisia international was a key player for Köln between 2019 and 2023, making 137 appearances across all competitions and establishing himself as a fan favourite. He departed on a free transfer last summer to join Frankfurt, where he has featured regularly, making 32 appearances in all competitions last season and contributing with three goals and three assists.
However, Skhiri’s role at Frankfurt has reportedly diminished recently, making a move back to Köln an appealing prospect. His familiarity with the club and the Bundesliga could allow him to integrate quickly should he return. Köln’s midfield has been an area they have looked to strengthen this window, and Skhiri would provide experience and quality.
Should Köln fail to secure Álvarez, bringing back Skhiri would represent a pragmatic solution, offering a known quantity and avoiding the need for a lengthy adaptation period. The move would likely provide Skhiri with more consistent playing time, while bolstering Köln’s options in the centre of the park.
