Van den Berg has signed a five-year deal with the Bundesliga club and says he’s “really looking forward to the next big step in his career”.
Feyenoord were interested in van den Berg this summer, while the defender was also in Crystal Palace’s thinking but says he felt “wanted” by FC Koln.
Thomas Kessler, sporting director, said FC Koln “pursued long and hard” to sign van den Berg, who made it clear to Boro early this summer he wanted to leave in the current window.
Against that backdrop, Rob Edwards said he “didn’t feel it was right” to include the 21-year-old in his squad for Saturday’s Championship opener against Swansea City.
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Despite van den Berg’s desire to move, Boro stood firm until their valuation for the defender was reached, and they’ve made a huge profit on a player they signed for just £250,000 two years ago.
A sell-on clause is also included in the deal so if and when van den Berg moves on in the future – with some of Europe’s biggest clubs continue to monitor the defender – Boro will benefit significantly.
Van den Berg made 66 appearances in his two seasons on Teesside and in a hugely impressive first campaign won both the Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards.
Boro said in a statement that van den Berg “departs with the best wishes of all at MFC”.
Delighted Koln transfer chief Kessler said: “We have pursued Rav long and hard and are delighted that he has chosen 1. FC Köln.
“We are convinced that his qualities will be a decisive help to us.
“Despite his young age, Rav already brings valuable experience from the Championship.
“He has a strong physical presence, outstanding athleticism, and qualities in tackling and in opening play.
“With this profile, he will give our defensive unit additional stability and versatility,”
Van den Berg said: “I’m really looking forward to the next big step in my career – and that’s 1. FC Köln.
“Thomas played a major role in my decision to join FC Köln; he gave me the feeling from the very beginning that the club really wanted me.
“I believe the FC family is an environment that suits me very well. This may sound a bit cliché, but I need it and can’t wait to play in front of the FC fans for the first time and give my all for them.”
Van den Berg’s exit will strengthen Boro’s hand in the transfer market, with the Championship club having today completed the signing of Sontje Hansen. They’re working hard on deals to sign a left wing-back and a striker.
Replacing van den Berg is not currently a priority, with Boro having signed Alfie Jones earlier in the summer knowing the Dutchman would almost certainly be leaving.
