Cenk to return to Mestalla as Köln pass on option after heartbreaking farewell | OneFootball

Cenk Özkacar will return to Mestalla this summer after Köln opted against a permanent deal. Valencia expect him back for pre-season in July, and Carlos Corberán does not plan to include him, as he made clear last summer, so player and club will again look for a move for next season.

Köln sporting director Thomas Kessler set out the club’s stance on Tuesday. He described the defender’s departure as heartbreaking, lauded his character and positivity in the dressing room, and noted that Özkacar even wished the club well when told of the decision.

Özkacar played 27 matches on loan this season after joining last summer. The purchase option was two million euros and was due to expire on 30 May, and the club intend to invest in a different profile of centre-back. Kessler’s admiration leaves the door ajar to a return on different terms.

For now, Özkacar must report back to Valencia, with whom he is contracted until 2028.

That scenario is one reason, though not the only one, why Valencia have not considered a new deal for Eray Cömert. Including Özkacar, Valencia already have five centre-backs for next season, namely Diakhaby, Tárrega, Copete, Özkacar and De Haas, who arrives on a free from Portugal.

Source: AS