Official: 1.FC Köln sign promising Benfica gem Gil Neves | OneFootball

As officially confirmed this morning, Friday 7 August, 1.FC Köln have secured the services of attacking talent Gil Neves.

The 18-year-old is transferring from Benfica Lisbon to the Cathedral City and has signed a long-term contract with Effzeh.

Köln didn't disclose a transfer fee which is reportedly a six-figure sum, while Benfica are also said to have secured a sell-on clause. 

Neves most recently played for Benfica's U-23 team in both the Portuguese youth league and the UEFA Youth League.

At Köln, the attacking midfielder will initially train with the first team but is expected to gain match experience in the Regionalliga.

“We have been following Gil's career for a long time and are delighted that we have now been able to bring him to FC. 

"Gil brings excellent prerequisites for great development to his natural position in central defensive midfield, both in terms of footballing ability and physicality, as well as character. 

Throughout the entire process, we could sense his strong conviction that FC is the right place for his next step – the club means a great deal to him. 

“We will integrate Gil into the first team at the right pace, without neglecting the most important component: playing time,” said Köln's Technical Director Lukas Berg.