According to Bild, Cologne have been linked with the 27-year-old Leeds United forward as they consider possible reinforcements for the January window. The club’s attacking problems have intensified since both forwards suffered injuries in a friendly against Viktoria Cologne earlier this month.
Dallinga sustained a cruciate ligament injury that is expected to keep him out for an extended period, while Ache suffered a muscle problem. Their absence has forced coach René Wagner to consider alternative attacking arrangements, with Cologne’s defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt highlighting the challenge of replacing their recognised centre-forwards.
Nmecha could offer Bundesliga experience, having previously played in Germany before joining Leeds. However, a move would depend on several factors, including his own intentions, Leeds’ willingness to negotiate and the financial terms involved.
The Germany international is reportedly weighing up his future at Elland Road because of limited playing time. His contract is due to expire at the end of the current season, meaning January could represent an opportunity for Leeds to secure a fee rather than risk losing him later without compensation.
Reports have suggested Nmecha earns around €3 million a year, excluding bonuses. That level of remuneration would make him one of Cologne’s better-paid players if the club were to offer a comparable package.
A transfer fee could add to the cost. Leeds are not necessarily expected to allow the striker to leave cheaply while he remains involved in the first-team squad, even if he has not established himself as a regular starter.
Cologne have also been weighing up whether to bring in a free agent before January. Recent reporting, however, indicates the club decided against an immediate signing and instead planned to reassess the market during the winter window.
That means Nmecha is a potential target rather than an imminent arrival. Cologne must balance the need for additional firepower against the cost of a deal, while Leeds will have their own considerations over squad depth and the player’s contract.
For now, the reports point to a possible January move, but neither club has confirmed negotiations. Cologne’s decision is likely to depend on how their current attacking options cope over the coming weeks and whether a financially viable deal can be arranged.