The "Billy Goats" have reinforced their team with Schalke's midfielder Marco Hoger, both Bundesliga sides confirmed on Monday.
The 26-year-old midfielder has agreed to join Cologne for next season after putting pen to paper on a deal until June 2021, Xinhua news agency reported.
"Marco has demonstrated his qualities, such as his pressing against the ball carrier and passing game, in many matches. It is great, that he has now decided to play for his hometown club. At Schalke he played on several positions, which shows his versatility," Cologne coach Peter Stoeger said.
Hoger plays for the "Royal Blues" since 2011 and has scored seven goals in 87 appearances for them.
"Every young boy has dreamed to play for his hometown club sometime. Through my transfer to Cologne I have now this great opportunity. But, before my transfer I want to complete my fifth season at Schalke with the best possible result," Marco Hoeger said.
His current club Schalke host FC Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday in UEFA Europa League's second leg of the last 32. They sit in 6th place of the Bundesliga standing meanwhile Cologne are in 9th.