Levi Rothermund
Bundesliga side FC Köln have completed the signing of highly-rated Dutch defender Rav van den Berg from Middlesbrough, securing the 21-year-old on a five-year contract.
Van den Berg, who is the younger brother of Brentford’s Sepp van den Berg, had been linked with a potential move to the Premier League this summer, including reported interest from Brentford. However, the centre-back has opted to begin a new chapter in Germany’s top flight.
The move comes after a stellar 2023–24 campaign in which Van den Berg was named Middlesbrough’s Player of the Season. Despite his rising profile, he did not feature in Boro’s opening two Championship fixtures — an absence now explained by the completion of this transfer.
On the international stage, Van den Berg also featured for the Netherlands Under-21s during this summer’s UEFA U21 European Championship, further underlining his growing reputation in European football.
For Köln, this signing represents both a long-term investment and an immediate boost to their defensive setup. Van den Berg’s composure, aerial ability, and progressive passing make him an ideal fit for the Bundesliga’s dynamic playing style.
2025/26Germany
Bayern Munich
Borussia Dortmund
RB LeipzigCan the Dutchman replicate his Championship dominance in the Bundesliga? Köln fans — and scouts across Europe — will be watching closely.