Augsburg updates: FCA in advanced talks with Demirovic replacement, Koubek departs
In other Augsburg-related transfer news, the expected departure of veteran goalkeeper Tomas Koubek from the Fuggerstadt was confirmed yesterday. The Czech keeper's expiring contract has not been renewed.
The fully expected departure of Bosnian striker Ermedin Demirovic from FC Augsburg this summer appears to be drawing nearer. Italian transfer expert Gianluca di Marzio reports that AC Milan have approached the Fuggerstädter with an offer in the €25 million range. The Italian journalist further notes that a transfer for slightly less might be finalized soon. Much speaks for a move, including the latest transfer gossip surrounding Demirovic published in Germany's preeminent footballing publication.
German journalist Frank Linkesch reports that Augsburg have a replacement lined up. Congo DR international Samuel Essende of relegated Portuguese Primera Liga side F.C. Vizela scored 15 goals and provided two assists for his club team this year. Linkesch writes that Augsburg are close to finalizing a four-year-deal for the 26-year-old. A transfer fee in the €4-5 million range will be due for the once-capped international, who once developed at the PSG academy.
In other Augsburg-related transfer news, the not unexpected departure of Czech goalkeeper Tomas Koubek on an expiring contract was confirmed yesterday. Marinko Jurendic and the FCA administrative team signed their new preferred #2 last week in the form of Croatian prospect Nediljko Labrovic last week. Koubek once moved to Augsburg for €7.5 million. He leaves having made 38 Bundesliga appearances over the course of four seasons.
"Tomas Koubek has always put himself at the service of the team and the team's success," Jurendic noted in a club statement, "We communicated very openly with him that we wanted to create a new constellation in the goalkeeper position. Tomas then made a decision in line with his own sporting ambition."