Köln in talks to sign lightning-quick 19-year-old centre-back

1. FC Köln are in negotiations to sign 19-year-old Abubacarr Kinteh from Norwegian outfit Tromsø IL, as per Sky.

Photo by Dennis Grombkowski/Bongarts/Getty Images

After securing their Bundesliga status, 1. FC Köln have begun preparations for the 2026/27 campaign in Germany’s top flight.

According to Sky Germany, the Billy Goats have set their sights on 19-year-old centre-back Abubacarr Kinteh, who plays for Norwegian side Tromsø IL.

The report claims that an agreement has already been reached with the player, with Köln now in talks with his club over a transfer fee.

However, Köln face strong competition for Kinteh’s signature, with significant interest reportedly coming from England in particular.

According to Sky, the defender has a top speed of 37 km/h, which would make him one of the fastest players in the Bundesliga.

Kinteh made his debut for the Gambian national team in October last year.