A Premier League transfer for the young talent, which didn’t materialize last winter, now appears to be back on track.
Reports suggest a transfer for Said El Mala to the Premier League is gaining momentum. The 1. FC Köln forward is reportedly aiming for a move to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Sources indicate that El Mala’s parents, who advise both Said (19) and his brother Malek (20), have reportedly given Brighton the ‘green light’ for a transfer.
This signifies a resumption of negotiations between the English club and FC Köln, talks that had previously collapsed in winter after Köln reportedly turned down a €30 million offer for the player.
Said El Mala Set for €20 Million Salary at Brighton
Brighton is reportedly prepared to ‘significantly’ raise their bid for El Mala. Discussions point to a potential transfer package that could net Köln €35 million plus performance-related bonuses, alongside a future sell-on percentage.
Köln’s sporting director Thomas Kessler and the club’s new squad planner Tim Steidten (formerly of West Ham) are reportedly involved in the ongoing discussions. Brighton is said to be eager to finalize the deal swiftly.
A move to the ‘Seagulls’ would also prove highly advantageous for El Mala. He is expected to sign a five-year contract worth a total of €20 million in salary, with potential increases tied to his appearances. A unique advantage for Brighton in the race for the German U21 international is their desire to also sign his brother, Malek, currently with Köln’s U21 team – an aspect not pursued by other interested clubs.
Said El Mala Under Contract with 1. FC Köln Until 2030
El Mala has been a standout performer for Köln this season and is considered one of the Bundesliga’s brightest young talents. The teenager recently netted his ninth goal against HSV (1:1), adding to his four assists. Such impressive statistics and displays have drawn considerable interest, linking him for weeks with elite clubs like Chelsea, Newcastle United, FC Barcelona, and Bayern Munich.
El Mala joined 1. FC Köln in 2024 from Viktoria Köln for €225,000, although he initially spent a year on loan with his former club. His current contract with Köln extends until 2030, and Viktoria Köln is reported to hold a ten percent sell-on clause for future transfers.
Said El Mala’s Performance Data for 1. FC Köln
Across 28 appearances for 1. FC Köln, he has registered 9 goals and 4 assists.