Overview
- Köln rejected Dortmund’s latest improved proposal that reportedly contained just under €40m guaranteed and roughly €45m with bonuses.
- BVB have raised the guaranteed portion after earlier lower bids but remain short of Köln’s stated minimum of €50m according to multiple reports.
- Said El Mala has signalled a preference for Dortmund but has continued to behave professionally and has not tried to force a move.
- If talks collapse, Dortmund view PSG winger Ibrahim Mbaye as a realistic alternative and some reports say PSG want about €45m plus €15m in add‑ons for him.
- Köln’s stronger negotiating position is driven by El Mala’s breakout season, the club’s reported removal of a sell‑on clause, and a past family veto that blocked a separate €50m offer.