Damion Downs Joins Southampton on Four-Year Deal

United States striker Damion Downs has completed his move to Southampton from FC Cologne for a reported fee of €10 million.

The 21-year-old forward — who recently featured in the Concacaf Gold Cup — recorded 10 goals and five assists last season with Cologne in Bundesliga 2, helping his club secure promotion to Germany’s top flight.

“Everyone plays football to win titles. Getting my first title at 20 was an amazing feeling, and I hope to repeat it this year,” said Downs.

Southampton, relegated from the Premier League last season, will begin their Championship campaign against Wrexham on August 9.

Downs joins a contingent of American strikers in the Championship — including Josh Sargent who scored 15 goals for Norwich and Haji Wright who netted 12 times for Coventry last season.