Hoffenheim’s Marius Bülter linked with 1. FC Köln switch | OneFootball

Sport Bild – as relayed by transfermarkt.de – reports that 1. FC Köln are interested in prying German striker Marius Bülter away from regional rivals Hoffenheim. Strong performances at Schalke both at the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga level once left Bülter a contender for the German national team, not to mention a subject of interest at several Premier League clubs.

Since joining Hoffenheim, however, Bülter has often struggled being used out of position. The rumor aligns perfectly with Köln’s search for a striker with extensive Bundesliga experience. The now 32-year-old Bülter has scored 27 top flight goals with Hoffenheim, Schalke, and Union Berlin. He contributed seven goals and four assists in 25 league appearances for die Kraichgauer last year.

Germany’s cathedral city club have leveled up their attack for the coming top flight campaign with the likes of Ragnar Ache, Jakub Kaminski, and Ísak Bergmann Jóhannesson. Another natural nine to serve behind Ache (or possibly together with him) is still lacking. Bülter, despite being used frequently on the left in recent years, can work comfortably as either a nine or centrally deployed service striker.

Bülter isn’t one of the players Hoffenheim are looking to rid themselves of, but is entering the final year of his contract. Hoffenheim – having already acquired Köln’s Tim Lemperle this summer – may be persuaded to cash in on Bülter. The player they once paid €3m for currently maintains a €2.5m estimated market value.

Die Geißböcke themselves appear ready to part company with several strikers not considered candidates to compete at Bundesliga level. Despite the fact that Florian Dietz, Steffen Tigges, and Sargis Adamyan all have Bundesliga experience, the trio have all been linked with moves to 2. Bundesliga sides better suited for them.

GGFN | Peter Weis