FC Köln is reportedly interested in acquiring Kiel's striker Benedikt Pichler, who is 27 years old and has a contract valid until 2027. 'Salzburger Nachrichten' reported that Köln had reached an agreement with the Bundesliga player, but Holstein Kiel turned down the possibility of a winter transfer. Despite experiencing challenges in previous transfer attempts, Köln appears resolute in their pursuit of Pichler, possibly due to the increased pressure on sports director Christian Keller. Pichler's absence from the matchday squad against Freiburg has increased speculation about a potential transfer, particularly since Pichler is keen on making the move.