BERLIN, July 23 (Xinhua) -- Cologne has signed Australia international midfielder Paul Okon-Engstler from Sydney FC on a contract through June 2030, the Bundesliga club announced Thursday.
The 21-year-old played in all four of Australia's matches at this year's World Cup, starting three, after a breakthrough season in Australia's A-League.
Cologne managing director Thomas Kessler said the club was convinced Okon-Engstler would bring quality and add depth to its central midfield.
"We are very pleased that Paul has decided to join 1. FC Cologne," Kessler said. "He is a young player with great potential who has developed very positively over the past few years."
Kessler added that Okon-Engstler's performances for Sydney FC earned him a place in Australia's national team and gave him the opportunity to demonstrate his ability at the World Cup.
"Paul brings good footballing qualities, high intensity and the willingness to work on himself every day," Kessler said. "That attitude fits very well with our path. We are convinced that he will strengthen our central midfield and give our squad additional options."
Okon-Engstler said Cologne's history, stadium and supporters played a key role in his decision to join the club.
"Cologne is a club with a huge history. The stadium and the fans are impressive," he said. "I can hardly wait to play there and finally be on the pitch with the team. For me, this is exactly the right next step in my career."
Born in Ostend, Belgium, Okon-Engstler developed as a player in Australia before joining Club Brugge's academy at age 14. He later moved to Benfica's under-19 team, where he played in the UEFA Youth League and for the Portuguese club's reserve side.
The midfielder returned to Australia last summer to join Sydney FC, making 27 A-League appearances and three domestic cup appearances during the season.
At international level, Okon-Engstler has worked with his father, Paul Okon, who is an assistant coach with the Australia national team. ■
