Official: Cologne midfielder Eric Martel will join Mainz on a free transfer this summer.

Mainz 05 officially announced on Tuesday that Cologne midfielder Eric Martel will join them on a free transfer this summer. According to Sky Sports Germany, the two sides expect him to sign a contract until June 30, 2029.

However, Sky Sports Germany's report has not been officially confirmed. As is customary, neither Mainz nor Martel has disclosed the contract's length or other details.

The 24-year-old Martel came through the RB Leipzig youth academy and made his professional debut for the first team in the German Cup on December 23, 2020. He then spent a season and a half on loan at Austria Vienna, during which he made 56 appearances in all competitions, contributing 4 goals and 5 assists.

In July 2022, Martel transferred from RB Leipzig to Cologne for €1.2 million. To date, he has made 134 appearances for Cologne, scoring 8 goals and providing 5 assists.

Regarding Martel's signing, Mainz sporting director Nico Bungert commented: "Eric has extensive Bundesliga experience and has consistently demonstrated his ability on the field over the years. At the same time, he still has tremendous room for growth and a strong drive to continuously improve."

“We are delighted to have convinced him to come to Mainz. Eric covers a wide area, tackles aggressively, and will also play an important role in the dressing room.”

Martel himself said: "I am very much looking forward to the new challenges in Mainz. Meeting with Urs Fischer and Nico Bungert has convinced me that Mainz is the ideal place for me to take the next step in my career. I am excited about the new season, the new team, the new city and the local fans, and I can't wait to officially start the new journey in July."

He also bid a heartfelt farewell to Cologne, his team of four years: "I have always worn the Cologne crest on my chest with immense pride. We have been through highs and lows together, but those wonderful moments will forever be etched in my heart."

“Yesterday was my last game representing Cologne. At this special moment, I sincerely thank every member of the club. Every moment playing for the fans at the RheinEnergieStadion was incredibly exciting for me.”

Image source: Internet/Mainz 05 official website