FSV Mainz 05 have officially announced that they have signed Eric Martel from 1. FC Köln on a free transfer. The 24-year-old has reportedly signed a contract until 2029. Martel chose Mainz despite inquiries from several European leagues, and VfL Wolfsburg was also interested. Martel stated that he is very excited about the new challenge in Mainz and that discussions with Urs Fischer and Niko Bungert convinced him that this is the next right step for him. He added that he is very much looking forward to the new season, the team, the city, and the fans, and that he cannot wait to get started at the beginning of July.

German central midfielder Eric Martel, 24, will join FSV Mainz 05 on a free transfer, as a full agreement has been reached because his contract at 1. FC Köln was not extended. Kölner Stadtanzeiger reports that his medical is scheduled for today. He will sign a contract until 2029, according to information from @berger_pj and @SkySportDE. Martel, who joined Köln in July 2022, has 30 caps and three goals for Germany's U21 national team. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is €8.00m. He had also been linked with other clubs, including RB Leipzig and SC Freiburg.