1. FC Köln consider move for Union Berlin defensive midfield leader Rani Khedira

1. FC Köln consider move for Union Berlin defensive midfield leader Rani Khedira Sky Germany’s Marlon Irlbacher reports that 1. FC Köln are exploring a move for experienced Union Berlin midfielder Rani Khedira. The cathedral city club currently seeks a new defensive midfield leader. Irlbacher is careful to note that concrete negotiations between the two Bundesliga clubs have not yet begun. Köln are presently holding discussions with the 32-year-old’s management to determine whether a transfer represents a realistic possibility. Should Köln reach a basic understanding with the player’s camp, an approach to Union could follow. Khedira had already been linked with Borussia Mönchengladbach earlier this summer, but a move to the Niederrhein ultimately failed to materialize. Köln continue search for experienced No. 6 Khedira fits a profile Köln have been pursuing throughout the summer. Finding an experienced holding midfielder remains one of the club’s major priorities following Eric Martel’s departure for Mainz 05. Köln have already added Australian international Paul Okon-Engstler from Sydney FC for approximately €1m. Get German Football News covered Okon-Engstler’s arrival last month . The 21-year-old can operate as either a No. 6 or No. 8 and impressed for Australia at the World Cup, but nevertheless arrives as a developmental prospect making a considerable jump from the A-League to Bundesliga football. Köln consequently continue searching for a more experienced midfielder capable of providing immediate stability. Their attempts have thus far produced little success. Wolfsburg rejected Köln’s approach for Vinicius Souza . Köln proposed a loan with a purchase option for the Brazilian, but relegated Wolfsburg currently intend to retain the midfielder for their promotion campaign. Former Köln midfielder Ellyes Skhiri was also considered before the cathedral city club elected to pursue other possibilities. West Ham midfielder Edson Álvarez has additionally been linked, though financial considerations render such a move difficult. Rani Khedira brings precisely the leadership Köln seek The veteran’s attraction extends well beyond his role as a conventional defensive midfielder. Khedira has developed into one of Union’s most important senior figures since joining the club and regularly assumes additional leadership responsibility whenever captain Christopher Trimmel is unavailable. Khedira demonstrated his importance during difficult periods last season. Following a particularly poor defeat against Heidenheim in April, GGFN covered Khedira publicly taking responsibility for Union’s performance and acknowledging the frustrations of the traveling support.  Khedira still offers significant sporting value The 32-year-old also remains capable of influencing Bundesliga matches directly. GGFN named Khedira Player of the Match in Union’s 1-1 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt in February. Khedira won 78 percent of his ground challenges, lost only one of four aerial duels, continually helped launch Union counterattacks and ultimately drew the penalty from which the Köpenick club equalized.  The newly-arrived Okon-Engstler offers youth, potential and technical ability. Khedira would bring Bundesliga experience, defensive reliability and an established leadership presence. GGFN  |  Peter Weis