- Cologne have a key defensive decision to make
- Simpson-Pusey’s future could shape their wider plans
- Man City talks are now central to the situation
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey’s future could become one of the more interesting Man City academy transfer stories as Cologne make plans for the new season.
The Englishman has already had a busy season away from the Etihad. He joined Celtic on loan last summer, but his spell in Scotland did not lead to the regular first-team football City would have wanted.
Hence, the Sky Blues decided to change course, and a loan deal with FC Köln was agreed in January. It gave Simpson-Pusey a more useful platform in Germany, where he could test himself in the Bundesliga.
However, the move seems to have convinced Köln, as the German outfit are now keen on signing the defender.
Cologne open Simpson-Pusey talks with Man City
According to GEISSBLOG, Köln are now negotiating with Man City over a permanent deal for Simpson-Pusey.
The German outlet claims the Bundesliga side want to keep the centre-back after his loan spell, with the defender himself open to staying in Cologne.
Köln reportedly have a purchase option for the defender, believed to be worth around £7m plus bonuses. However, the club are hoping to agree a lower fee with City.
A further loan is reportedly not straightforward at this stage because Simpson-Pusey’s City contract only runs until 2027.
City talks could shape Cologne’s defensive rebuild
GEISSBLOG claims that the defender’s future is now one of Köln’s main priorities following uncertainty around Said El Mala.
Likewise, the Citizens have the advantage in this deal as the German side are keen on getting their hands on a tested defender.
However, a contract running until 2027 creates problems for the English side. While £7m gives City a good starting point, they will still have to make a decision this summer because of the approaching expiry.
City must make a long-term call
While Simpson-Pusey has first-team potential, returning to the Etihad will reduce his chances at regular senior football.
At 20, the Englishman’s development will depend on the level of football he plays over the following years.
If a return to England puts him on the bench, Simpson-Pusey’s potential will hit a dead end, leading to disappointment on all sides.
