Bayern and Dortmund Step Up Interest in Köln Teenager Said El Mala

Overview

• Sky Germany reports Bayern have intensified their pursuit and have contacted both El Mala’s representatives and 1. FC Köln.
• Borussia Dortmund are also in the frame, having inquired about the player before his move from Viktoria Köln to Köln last year, with additional interest said to come from abroad.
• Köln do not plan to sell in the winter window, with local outlet Express reporting even a €40 million offer would be rejected.
• The 19-year-old’s breakout includes goals against Hoffenheim and Freiburg and an assist versus Wolfsburg after a productive loan at Viktoria Köln.
• Transfer details remain contested, with reports of a long-term deal to 2030 and no release clause contrasted with claims of a shorter contract and a €35 million summer price, and separate reports that Brighton had a ~€15 million bid rejected in the summer.