Private Blog Network – Rav van den Berg has officially joined Bundesliga side Cologne from Middlesbrough in a deal worth up to £11.2 million. The 21-year-old Dutch defender signed a five-year contract with the newly promoted German club after completing his move this week.
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Van den Berg joined Middlesbrough in 2022 from Dutch side PEC Zwolle. Over two seasons at the Riverside Stadium, he made 66 appearances and became a key figure in the team’s defense. His performances earned him Middlesbrough’s Player of the Year award for the 2023-24 season, reflecting his impact on the squad.
This summer, Van den Berg represented the Netherlands in the UEFA Under-21 European Championship. Despite that momentum, he has yet to appear in any of Middlesbrough’s opening two matches of the 2025-26 campaign. The arrival of new head coach Rob Edwards may have influenced the club’s willingness to allow the transfer.
Cologne secured promotion to the Bundesliga last season and has now added defensive depth by signing Van den Berg. The move presents the young defender with an opportunity to play top-flight football in one of Europe’s major leagues.
Cologne Move Offers Fresh Start and Higher-Level Competition
Van den Berg’s transfer marks a significant step forward in his career. Leaving the Championship for the Bundesliga offers a platform to compete at a higher level. At just 21, he has already shown maturity and consistency, which Cologne will hope to benefit from in their return to Germany’s top tier.
The Dutch defender brings strong ball-playing ability, positional awareness, and calmness under pressure—traits that should suit the Bundesliga’s tactical demands. His development at Middlesbrough was notable, and Cologne’s interest highlights his growing reputation across Europe.
For Middlesbrough, the deal represents a substantial profit and a chance to reinvest in the squad under new leadership. While the club loses a fan favorite, the decision aligns with both financial and sporting strategy given the current transition period.
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Van den Berg’s focus now shifts to integrating into Cologne’s setup and proving himself at the highest level. With a five-year contract in place, the club views him as a long-term investment. His move continues a growing trend of young Dutch players testing themselves abroad early in their careers.
Cologne will aim to build a competitive squad capable of staying in the Bundesliga. Van den Berg is expected to play a central role in their defensive unit. If he adapts quickly, this transfer could be a milestone in what promises to be a promising career.