FC Koln will likely part ways with 19-year-old German attacking sensation Said El Mala for around €50-60 million amid his links with Barcelona and Manchester City.
According to a report by German outlet BILD, Barcelona and Manchester City are interested in Said El Mala. The two European powerhouses are keen on bolstering their offensive units by signing a versatile winger next year. So, the 19-year-old FC Koln attacking sensation has emerged as a target for them.
Brighton & Hove Albion have already failed with a bid to sign the Krefeld-born wonderkid after submitting a bid worth €20 million. That will not be nearly enough to land the teenage prospect, as the Billy Goats “are expected to” cash in on him for €50-60 million amid his links with several European bigwigs.
Who is Said El Mala?
Said El Mala is the latest promising prodigy to rise in prominence in his homeland. A native of Krefeld, the youngster has spent his formative years thus far in Germany, passing through the academies at Linner SV, KFC Uerdingen, Borussia Monchengladbach, TSV Meerbusch, and FC Viktoria Koln. The 19-year-old has burst into the spotlight this season at FC Koln.
The teenage sensation has enjoyed his Bundesliga breakthrough this season, chipping in with six goals and three assists in 14 league outings. El Mala has also earned his first call-up to the German national squad due to his exploits for FC Koln, and his progress has piqued the attention of several European bigwigs, including Barcelona and Manchester City.
A man in demand
Barcelona’s interest in Said El Mala is understandable. While the Blaugrana signed Marcus Rashford and Roony Bardghji in the summer transfer window, it is unclear if the former will complete a permanent move to Camp Nou next year. So, the reigning La Liga champions must keep their options open. El Mala has thus emerged as a viable target for Barcelona.
As for Manchester City, Pep Guardiola has a stacked offensive unit, with Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku making their mark this season. However, Savinho’s long-term future remains uncertain despite his new contract, compelling the Citizens to set their sights on El Mala. Meanwhile, FC Koln’s valuation has emerged, and the Billy Goats “are expected to” cash in on him for €50-60 million.
Interestingly, Brighton & Hove Albion have already failed with a bid to sign the 19-year-old German wonderkid after submitting a bid worth €20 million. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Manchester City face stiff competition from other high-profile clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.