Sky Deutschland report that Crystal Palace are battling 1. FC Köln for Middlesbrough defender Rav van den Berg. The Bundesliga side have already submitted a €7m offer.
Crystal Palace are facing serious competition from 1. FC Köln in the race to sign highly rated Dutch defender Rav van den Berg, according to journalist Patrick Berger.
The 21-year-old centre-back, who impressed last season in the Championship with Middlesbrough, has attracted attention from several clubs — but the battle now appears to be down to Köln and Palace.
The German club, freshly promoted to the Bundesliga, have already submitted a €7 million offer for the player. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace have yet to match it — but remain very much in the race.
Why Crystal Palace Are Targeting Rav van den Berg
With Marc Guéhi attracting interest from Liverpool and Joachim Andersen entering the final stretch of his deal, Palace are actively seeking long-term defensive reinforcements.
Van den Berg’s ball-playing ability, youth profile, and ceiling make him a logical fit for Oliver Glasner, whose system requires pace and agility at the back.
“We need more speed and verticality from our back line — Van den Berg gives us both,” said a Palace insider. — South London Press
Feyenoord Out, Köln In — But Palace Still Have a Shot
Initially, Feyenoord were also in for the Dutch U21 international but have since pivoted to sign Anel Ahmedhodžić from Sheffield United. That leaves only Köln and Palace in the running.
Despite Köln’s early bid, Van den Berg has not yet agreed personal terms with the Bundesliga club. Reports suggest he is open to moving abroad — but would also be tempted by a Premier League step-up, especially if game time is promised.
Rav van den Berg – 2024/25 Season (Middlesbrough)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 37 |
| Clean Sheets | 12 |
| Pass Accuracy | 84% |
| Tackles per 90 | 2.2 |
| Aerial Duels Won % | 63% |
| Progressive Passes per 90 | 3.6 |
Analyst Verdict
Van den Berg has the potential to become a high-level centre-back. Technically clean, physically ready, and experienced beyond his years, he would offer Crystal Palace a long-term option who could also rotate in immediately.
But with Köln ahead in negotiations, Palace need to act fast or risk missing out — especially given their vulnerability to late-window raids for their own defenders.
Key Insights
- Crystal Palace and Köln are battling for Rav van den Berg
- Köln have submitted a €7m bid to Middlesbrough
- Feyenoord are no longer in the race
- Palace view the Dutchman as a long-term successor to Guéhi or Andersen
- A decision is expected within the next week
What’s Next?
With Köln having made the first move, Palace must now decide whether to formally enter the bidding war. A counter-offer could arrive in the coming days, especially if Boro signal they’re open to negotiation.
Expect developments before the end of the week, as Van den Berg weighs up Bundesliga football or a Premier League future.
Should Palace match Köln’s bid — or look elsewhere for defensive depth?
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