Leipzig and Benfica close in on Cologne’s Jakub Kaminski

RB Leipzig and Portuguese giants Benfica have entered the race for 24‑year‑old Polish winger Jakub Kaminski, who is set to leave Cologne on a €20 million release clause that expires mid‑July, intensifying a battle that already sees Brighton & Hove Albion as early favourites.

The release clause is set at €20 million and only remains active until mid‑July. This deadline forces interested clubs to move quickly. Should a club trigger the clause, Kaminski would be able to depart Cologne without a transfer fee.

Brighton & Hove Albion were long considered the favourites to sign the player. A report last week claimed the deal with the Premier League club had been finalised, but the German side now faces strong competition from Leipzig and Benfica.

Kaminski primarily operates as a left winger but can also play deeper as a left midfielder or further forward as an attacking midfielder. His versatility adds tactical options for any suitor.

He featured in all 34 league matches for Cologne last season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists. Those numbers underline his consistent contribution in the Bundesliga.

With the mid‑July deadline looming, the interested clubs must conclude negotiations swiftly. The outcome will determine whether Cologne’s key winger departs on a €20 million deal this summer.