Churlinov made his Bundesliga debut against VfL Wolfsburg on Matchday 1 of the current campaign. He also racked up nine fourth-tier appearances for Köln’s second team, registering six goals and two assists.
The North Macedonian was just 16 when he made his international debut in a 3-0 win over Belarus in March 2017. He joined Köln after spells with the F.C. Hansa Rostock and 1. FC Magdeburg youth teams, finishing as the Billy Goats’ top scorer in the Under-19 Bundesliga West last season.
Sporting director Sven Mislintat: “Darko is a young, talented player who we expect to develop in the coming years and who we regard as a promising talent within our squad. He can play on both wings as well as in defensive and attacking positions. His versatility makes him a sensible acquisition for us.”
Darko Churlinov: “I’m very pleased to be here. I’m 100 per cent motivated to do my best for VfB. I hope I can help the team wherever I’m needed in the battle for promotion. I was given a great welcome from the moment I arrived and I’m looking forward to getting to know the whole team even better.”