Köln complete signing of Ghana international

1. FC Köln have landed Gideon Mensah on a free transfer from AJ Auxerre.

Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images

1. FC Köln have bolstered their defensive ranks with the signing of 27-year-old left-back Gideon Mensah.

The Ghana international joins the Billy Goats on a free transfer from AJ Auxerre and has signed a two-year deal.

“We have been looking at Gideon for a longer period of time and are pleased that we could convince him to join FC. He brings international experience to the table, put in strong performances in France last season and showed just that at the World Cup as well," said 1. FC Köln managing director Thomas Kessler.

“Gideon is a player that always puts the team first and has a high-level of tactical discipline, plenty of defensive strengths and brings a real dynamic onto the pitch. His profile will give our squad increased stability and quality, increasing our options at this position even further.”

Mensah revealed that he had several offers to consider after representing Ghana at the World Cup.

“After the World Cup, I had several options. In the discussions with those responsible at FC, who showed real interest in me, I had the best feeling from the very start. The sporting perspective that the club showed me was also a big reason. 

"I obviously looked into the city and heard a lot about the incredible support of the FC fans, and I’m really looking forward to that. As was the case with Ghana and at my previous clubs, I will give everything for FC so that the club can reach its goals and we will be successful as a team,” he said.